BINDING

Artistic Covers

The cover is the doorway to the inner world of a book. It is a reflection of the essence of a literary work and an artistic interpretation of it. For that reason, the cover of each publication produced by Rare Books of Saint Petersburg is unique. Master bookbinders create the bindings and covers by hand, using vintage equipment. For convenient storage and safe transportation, the books are provided with a specially made case decorated in the style of the publication. 

Continuing the centuries-old traditions of artistic bindings, the skilful and sumptuous decoration of manuscript volumes and presentation volumes, the covers of our books are made from rare and expensive materials worthy of becoming the setting for a unique publication: choice sorts of leather, hides and furs, precious varieties of wood, exquisite fabrics, some decorated with silver and gold embroidery and beadwork. Techniques employed in finishing the covers include hand embossing and debossing, painting, engraving and patination. For decoration we use ceramics, glass, porcelain, coloured enamels, copper, brass, bronze, silver, gilding and precious stones – sapphires, emeralds and rubies.