Title: A New Specimen Book of Curwen Pattern Papers
Author: David McKitterick
Publisher: The Whittington Press, 1987
Edited by David McKitterick; 110 pages, 30 mounted examples, and other illustrations
The Curwen Press was founded in 1863 for the publication of music. In 1908 the focus broadened to include limited edition books, and peripheral materials produced with the highest level of design and quality. The original Specimen book was published in 1928 as a showcase for the artistic work of artists like Paul Nash, Edward Bawden, and Eric Ravillous, among others. This new specimen celebrates the artists who produced patterns for the Curwen Press between 1920 and 1950. It features the designs of Harry Carter, Enid Marx, and Paul Lowinsky, among others. Each of the sample pages included in this very exclusive edition contains an original print excerpted from a larger sheet and laid into the binding. These exquisite pattern papers survive in a limited quantity and exist as a testament to the commitment to the importance of craftsmanship and design during the peak years of the Curwen Press.
This special book was produced by David McKitterick to venerate the lives and working relationship of Hans Schmoller and Oliver Simon, to whom the book owes its original conception. The pervasive care and commitment to excellence that distinguished the Curwen Press also saturates this superb book, published in its honor.
