Art of the Grimoire: An Illustrated History of Magic Books and Spells

Grimoires, or books of magic and occult knowledge, have been around for centuries, serving as physical records of magical phenomena and tools for enacting magic through spells and rituals. This book explores the artistic qualities of grimoires, featuring over two hundred color illustrations from ancient times to the present, and considers their global impact, including Egyptian and Greek papyri, ancient Chinese bamboo scripts, South American pulp prints, and Japanese demon encyclopedias. It will enchant readers interested in the history of magic and science, as well as book and manuscript history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

Grimoires, ancient to modern, are a rich tapestry of magic and occult knowledge, woven with the threads of religion, science, culture, and colonialism. These invaluable texts have transcended time, serving as both physical records of magical phenomena and vessels for the enactment of spells and rituals. In his captivating book, renowned scholar Owen Davies delves into the artistic qualities of grimoires, showcasing a unique world of design and imagination. With over two hundred color illustrations spanning from ancient times to the present, Davies explores the diverse origins of grimoires, including Egyptian and Greek papyri, ancient Chinese bamboo scripts, South American pulp prints, and Japanese demon encyclopedias. This comprehensive global approach offers a profound understanding of the evolution and influence of these texts. Whether you are a student of magic, science, or book and manuscript history, this enchanting book will captivate your senses and transport you to a realm where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur.

Dimension: 248 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300272017