Rare Book Monthly
Book Catalogue Reviews - May - 2006 Issue
Antiquarian Books About Books from Oak Knoll
Lady Victory strikes a Janet Jacksonesque pose.
Here is an item that is connected to the most expensive book sold at auction last year. Item 608 is the Annual Report of the Directors of the (Providence) Athenaeum 1841-1898. This three-volume set also includes the first printing of the 1836-7 annual report, published on the Athenaeum's 50th anniversary in 1886. It was during these early years that the Athenaeum purchased the double-elephant folio of John James Audubon's "Birds of America" which was issued in parts. It continued to hold this item in its collection until last year, when it was sold at auction for $5,616,000. Their annual reports will cost you a lot less - $125.
As long as we're writing about Rhode Island, a state we too often ignore in our reviews, item 611 is John Bartlett's Bibliography of Rhode Island... Even in 1864 Bartlett was able to fill up 287 pages with descriptions of books from Rhode Island. This state is bigger than we imagined. $125.
Here's one more state we have too often ignored: Vermont. Small as it is, it could fill a 349-page bibliography in 1897. Item 626 is The Bibliography of Vermont... by M.D. Gilman $185.
For those with an interest in book bindings, Oak Knoll offers A Manuel of the Art of Bookbinding Containing Full Instructions in the Different Branches of Forwarding, Gilding and Finishing, by James Nicholson. This book was published in 1856, and Oak Knoll describes it as, "The first edition of the first American bookbinding manual." Item 52. $850.
Item 23 offers some interesting early Alabama forms. They are two blank 1810 forms for admittance to the Birmingham hospital. They note that patients should bring a change of linen. However, "Persons suspected to have the Itch cannot be admitted..." That one leaves me scratching my head. $185.
Item 460 contains some most interesting and beautiful images, but from a surprising source. From the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, circa 1873, they are portraits and vignettes of buildings, allegorical figures, American eagles and the like, images you would find on bonds and money. For example, see the image of "Victory" on this page, whose Janet Jacksonesque pose was acceptable in the 19th century, but would stir great controversy, and get you some hefty fines, today. Get that lady a Burka! $3,750.
Oak Knoll Books may be reached at www.oakknoll.com or 302-328-7232.
