Victorian decorated trade bindings, 1830-1880

"This very detailed study deals with the many impulses that resulted in a growth in book cover design in Victorian Britain. New technical developments provided the means for artists to attempt wide experimentation, at the same time as they broke new ground in the artistic style they adopted. Edmund King describes and indexes over 750 books, concentrating on those that have cover designs by artists who signed their work or are known to be responsible for it. An essential reference for all students and researchers of Victorian publishing practices."--BOOK JACKET.