| Where better to pen a magnum
opus than inside this
magnificent example of "a
ventaglio" (fan) binding? This
reproduction of gilt-work over
Moroccan leather shrouds
unadorned pages that make
space for chronicling events of
the day or recording elaborate
fictions. The covers display
at their center a rose window
surrounded by a design of
slight Eastern influence and in
each corner a filigree fan - the
window quartered. An intricate
ornamentation typical of Italian
and Spanish Baroque, styling
such as this gained popularity
during the first half of the 17th
century. Characterized by a
celebration of ornate detail,
Baroque decoration draws
interest to deep symbolism
couched in opulence. |
