The Life Work of Dard Hunter. A Progressive Illustrated Assemblage of His Works as Artist, Craftsman, Author, Papermaker, and Printer.
Chillicothe, 1981-83. Two volumes. 12 x 17. Frontis, (8), 198; frontis, (9), 131 pages, plus numerous inserts. Full chestnut morocco by Gray Parrot, ruled in black & gilt, Hunter armorial device gilt on Vol. I, Hunter watermark gilt on Vol. 2. Each volume in a cloth tray case with morocco title label. Fine. With the prospectus to Vol. 1; the only one issued. Item #6498
One of the great 20th century press books. One of 50 deluxe sets (of a total 150 sets) signed by Dard Hunter II; each volume is #144. In addition to the full leather bindings the deluxe copies were printed on a heavier stock of handmade paper, with extra specimens and illustrations in Vol. 2.
Vol. 1 covers Hunter's early career from 1904-11 with copious detail and illustrations from his work at the Roycroft Studios; the volume closes with a section on his stained glass creations from 1904 to 1943. There are 194 colored and 65 b&w tipped-in illustrations; most printed to resemble the originals in both paper and color, requiring hand-cut tinted blocks and in some cases watercolors to achieve the desired fidelity.
Vol. 2 covers Hunter's life with paper from the Mill House in Marlborough, NY (1912) to Papermaking by Hand in America (1950). There are extensive photographs from all periods, about 50 tipped-in samples of Hunter's papers and watermarks -- many full-page, and a bibliography with samples from the original publications. Printed with a Washington handpress on handmade paper with Dard Hunter II's hand-cut and cast type. A monumental memorial for an extraordinary life.
Price: $7,500.00