Benedicite Omnia Opera
Llandogo, Monmouthshire, UK: The Old Stile Press, 1987. First, Limited Edition. 4to, 12 x 8 inches (305 x 201 mm). [60] unnumbered pp. Hand-set in 70- and 30-point Garamond Italic type and printed on mould-made paper from St. Cuthbert’s Mill. Quarter-bound in sand-coloured cloth by Woolnough Fine Binding with Canson Ingres paper-covered boards printed in red with a design by the artist, gilt-titled spine, all edges gilt. Housed in the original slipcase covered in grey cloth with grey Ingres paper sides decorated with a repeat linocut design by the artist printed in midnight blue.
Copy 56 of 225 numbered copies signed by the artist.
[McDowall-Campbell, pp. 60-62].
A striking private-press interpretation of the Benedicite, the canticle from the Book of Common Prayer in which all aspects of Creation are called upon to “praise Him and magnify Him for ever.” Conceived, illustrated, and designed throughout by Alyson MacNeill, the work employs bold, richly inked linocuts that unfold across the pages in varying compositions, each opening differently arranged to integrate text and image. The dramatic scale of the Garamond Italic type complements the vigorous graphic treatment, producing a work of unusual visual rhythm and intensity.
Founded by Nicolas McDowall in 1979, Old Stile Press is among the most distinguished modern British private presses, celebrated for its close collaboration with contemporary artists and its commitment to hand-printing, fine materials, and innovative book design.
Condition: Fine.
Item number: 2392
Price: $240.00
Share: