Okay, nothing new there, of course. Except that there’s a DNA twist, as Archaeology Magazine explains, that make this a perfect story for a holistic industry journal like TNPS.
In the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, Cistercian monks in France demonstrated true dedication to preserving their literary treasures. At Clairvaux Abbey, founded in 1115, manuscripts were meticulously wrapped in animal skins to ensure their longevity.
Okay, nothing new there, of course. Except that there’s a DNA twist, as Archaeology Magazine explains, that make this a perfect story for a holistic industry journal like TNPS.
What’s new here is the discovery that someone, for reasons unknown, decided to DNA-sequence the covers of Cistercian tomes in northern France, and revealed that some manuscripts were covered with seal hides sourced from distant regions such as Scandinavia, Denmark, Scotland, and even Greenland.
These at-the-time exotic materials likely arrived through Norse trade routes, although we should be careful not to read to much into exotic origins. The monks themselves may have been unaware they were using sealskin rather than skin from an animal locally sourced.
The Modern Renaissance of Book Covers
Fast forward to today, and the art of book covering has evolved into a lucrative niche within the publishing industry. Special editions of books often feature elaborate covers designed to captivate collectors and enthusiasts. Techniques such as embossing, foil stamping, and digital printing have revolutionised the way covers are crafted, blending artistry with technology. These innovations not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of books but also add value, making them desirable collector’s items.
Bridging the Past and Present
The monks’ use of exotic materials and the modern industry’s embrace of sophisticated techniques share a common thread: the desire to elevate the physical form of books. While the monks sought durability and protection in an analogue age, today’s publishers aim for visual allure and marketability in a digital age.
From the seal hides of medieval France to the cutting-edge printing technologies of today, the evolution of book covers reflects a fascinating interplay between tradition and innovation. As publishing continue to explore new materials and techniques, we carry forward a legacy of craftsmanship that honours the past while embracing the future.
On which note to add that AI, the newest kid on the publishing block, will no doubt assist in new cover innovations while at the same time exploring new ways to preserve these ancient texts.
For the Archaeology Magazine article, with images, click here.
This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.
