Three large format bound volumes of the prints of Gus Mazzocca.

These are three large format bound volumes of prints, each 77 x 56 cm, made especially for the Medieval and Historical Bindings in a Modern Design exhibition at Dominik Rostworowski Gallery, Krakow, Poland, May 2006.

The research field is bookbinding for a volume of Gus Mazzocca’s prints using ‘lost’ techniques derived from codicology, particularly medieval binding associated with Anton Koburger.

Supported by the Academy of the Arts in Krakow, this practice-based research sought to present images by the experimental printmaker Mazzocca as framed prints and contained within a book.

A number of medieval bookbinders have developed a flexible binding technique with Anton Koburger, active in Nuremburg between 1478 and 1515, being a focus of study. The conclusion drawn was that for the volume to open flat the boards had to be stable and the spine needed to be round not flat (a relative rarity in medieval bindings). The adhesive (animal glue) needed to be used fresh as it quickly dries, although modern PVA adhesives obviate this difficulty. Linen tapes were laced in and the stitches kept tight. At each tape station the needle dropped down to catch the previous thread. Thread may have been pierced to prevent it running from the needle and silk thread, though used, left openings. Dividers may have been employed for measuring the vellum prior to cutting. Bone folders were commonly used to assist in adhering the vellum to the boards without creasing.

These were the major principles that informed the binding of Mazzocca’s prints. The volume withstood many openings during the exhibition at the Dominic Rostworowski Gallery without any damage. It could even be opened board-to-board, permitting unimpeded visual access to the viewer.

Three copies were made (now in the collections of University of Connecticut, University of the Arts London, the third with the researcher).