Archives Unlocked: Rare Books

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Presentation

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Publication Date

6-13-2024

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Presentation: 1:24

Abstract

At the Siegman Archives, we house a remarkable collection of about 8,000 rare medical books, dating from the 1460s through the 1800s. Among these treasures, you will find a fascinating aspect of book history known as "binding waste." This practice involved bookbinders using pages from discarded older books and manuscripts as covers or fill-in papers, rather than using fresh and expensive blank paper.

One notable example in our collection is a German translation of Vesalius’ monumental work on anatomy, published in 1783. Remarkably, its covers are crafted from a musical missal dating back to the 1500s. This unexpected blend of texts provides a unique glimpse into the resourceful practices of early bookbinders.

Another intriguing item is a small book of Aphorisms by Hippocrates, printed in Paris in 1526. This book contains medieval inscriptions used as endpapers. These inscriptions remained hidden until the book was rebound in 1900, revealing a hidden layer of history.

We invite you to explore these and many other historical gems at the Siegman Archives. Each book in our collection has its own story to tell, offering a window into the past and the innovative ways materials were repurposed.

Discover more about our unique collection and the fascinating history behind these rare books by visiting the Siegman Archives at Thomas Jefferson University.

Language

English

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