I just started cataloging a collection of annuals or gift books. These books usually came out once a year, around the holidays, and were exchanged among friends. They targeted women and children in the overall design and content, resulting in books filled with lovely pictures, sentimental poetry, and prose. They were only published for a short time, between 1820 and 1860, give or take a few years.
I absolutely love these books, they are exquisite examples of engraving and bookbinding from the period. As I catalog, I have taken photos of some of my favorite little discoveries. I hate to be greedy and hoard them for myself, so I decided to post my findings here for you! (The first two photos are of books from a language of flowers collection that I have yet to catalog, a sneak peek.)
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| A poem I enjoyed. |
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| Some binding examples for "the Rose of Sharon." |
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| An especially elaborate binding. |
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| I will also catalog these tiny pocket almanacs. |
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| Many of these annuals offer advice for young women. |
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| An elaborate title page. |
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| A beautiful binding for "Odd-Fellows Offering." |
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| Could be Poe... |
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| A very cute book of flowers for each day of the year. |
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