Binding for “Undine”

George Sumner, designer

1888

Ink blocking on blue cloth.

8¾ x 6¾ inches

An Art Nouveau binding, closely linked to the illustrations, also by Sumner, contained within the boards. A prime example of the popularization of a radical style which is both tasteful and understated – at least when measured against the more ostentatious bindings of the period.

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Photograph and text by Simon Cooke

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