Videos

Phil Pirages, proprietor of Phillip J. Pirages Fine Book and Manuscripts, examines book collecting, how and why people collect, why they should collect books, and the role of the bookseller in collaborating with collectors, using examples from the current Pirages inventory to illustrate the special pleasures derived from an appreciation of a book's binding, printing, illustration, and provenance.

A look at the use of vellum in making books, from Medieval manuscripts to modern private press books.

A discussion of 16th century bookbinding done for famous collectors, with a digression on forgeries.

Phil talks about the career of the greatest figure in modern English bookbinding, and shows examples of the work he did with his own hands as well as the bindings he designed for his Doves Bindery.

The story of the Guild of Women Binders, a group of turn-of-the-century female artisans in England known for their innovative designs.

Phil discusses Cosway bindings, which feature miniatures painted on ivory as part of the binding design.

A look at two of the lavish jewelled bindings produced by Sangorski & Sutcliffe--creators of the "Great Omar" that went down with the Titanic--in the early 20th century.

A discussion of two creative modern English binders, Cedric Chivers and George Bagguley.

A discussion of two French binders of the Belle Epoque, both known for their skill and innovation.

Books with a hidden surprise beneath their gilt edges: a painting done on the fanned-out fore edge of the text block.

The distinctive style of French books--elegant, refined, and beautifully illustrated.

Phil looks at various types of illustrated books with color plates, including two special American publications, Audubon's "Birds of America" and McKenney & Hall's "Indian Tribes of North America."