In the year 2009 we made a magnificent binding for a very exclusive notebook with elaborate gemstone settings in 24-carat real gold plating, with a medieval Filigree and with a Gothic “ivory relief”.
A total of 40 genuine champagne-coloured cultured pearls, 4 large aquamarines and 14 genuine tourmalines were set in the so-called “Sugar loaf“-cut (or “sugarloaf cut”) is used.
The magnificent binding has 2 additional book clasps, each with a tourmaline and 4 cultured pearls. An all-round gold edge adorns the book pages.
The Gothic-style “ivory panel” in the middle of the front cover depicting the Adoration of the Magi was created using techniques commonly used today for professional museum copies: from a special synthetic resin with mineral pigments and a final, particularly impressive patination (including the typical aging cracks).
The leather binding is made from a very rare African goatskin (dyed by specialists in England), which is also ordered and processed by the Vatican libraries from the same source. The leather binding was carried out by an experienced master bookbinder.
Overall, a very harmonious and feminine gemstone book cover with pastel-colored pearls and gemstones, which gave us a lot of pleasure – certainly an interesting object for everyone in this quality book cover collector.
Interesting Facts about Medieval Ornate Bindings
The medieval ceremonial binding is an impressive example of book art and a symbol of the wealth and power that were often associated with books in the Middle Ages. These artistically designed book bindings, which were used primarily for Bibles, Gospels and liturgical texts, not only served to protect the valuable manuscripts but also for representation. A ceremonial binding was a precious work of art that was decorated with elaborate materials such as gold, silver, ivory and precious stones to emphasize the importance of the book's contents.
The design of a magnificent binding was often deeply rooted in religious symbolism. Precious stones such as rubies, emeralds or amethysts were often placed in magnificent settings on the book covers, as they were believed to have a spiritual significance. Golden reliefs and filigree decorations often showed Christian scenes, such as the crucifixion or the ascension of Christ, and thus underlined the sacred character of the books. Ivory carvings were also often used, depicting finely crafted scenes from the Old or New Testament.
The production of such a magnificent binding required the cooperation of various highly specialized craftsmen, including goldsmiths, ivory carvers and bookbinders. This work was extremely time-consuming and expensive, which is why the magnificent binding was usually commissioned by monasteries, church dignitaries or wealthy nobles. In addition to their religious significance, they also served as a status symbol and demonstrated the influence and power of their owners.
Many magnificent bindings can be found in museums and libraries today and are among the outstanding examples of medieval art. They not only offer insights into the religious and cultural world of the Middle Ages, but also into the craftsmanship and aesthetics of this era.