Lion's Den (Sybil Pye Bindings) Ultra Lined Hardcover Journal

Sybil Pye was a British bookbinder known for her striking Art Deco designs. This particular design, created for a collection of William Wordsworth's poems illustrated by Thomas Sturge Moore, features a majestic lion's head. Pye was one of the youngest pre–First World War women binders and specialized in inlaid leather bindings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2023
Publisher: Paperblanks

This remarkable Art Deco design originates from the esteemed British bookbinder Sybil Pye (1879–1959), celebrated as one of the foremost female artisans of her era. Pye, a self-taught artist, embarked on her creative journey in the early 1900s, utilizing naturally colored leather for her initial creations. As her skills flourished, she progressed to intricate multi-colored panels, showcasing her mastery of the craft. By 1934, Pye had achieved remarkable feats, creating intricate covers featuring up to six different inlays, which were showcased extensively throughout England and internationally. This particular design was meticulously crafted to hold a collection of William Wordsworth's poems, beautifully illustrated by Pye's lifelong friend, Thomas Sturge Moore. While it remains uncertain whether Pye intended to evoke the image of a majestic lion's head with this cover, the possibility adds an intriguing dimension to the binding, as one of Wordsworth's poems bears the title "Picture of Daniel in the Lions' Den, at Hamilton Place." Pye stands as one of the youngest pre-First World War women binders, and her specialization in inlaid leather bindings sets her apart as the sole binder in England dedicated to this intricate art form. Through this series, we honor the pioneering spirit of Sybil Pye, a visionary woman who left an indelible mark on the world of book design.

Dimension: 230 x 180 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781439793794