Author
Alfred W. (Alfred William) Pollard
1859-1944
Alfred W. (Alfred William) Pollard (1859-1944) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Alfred W. (Alfred William) Pollard
Early Illustrated Books A History of the Decoration and Illustration of Books in the 15th and 16th Centuries
"Early Illustrated Books" by Alfred W. Pollard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the decoration and illustration of books during the 15th and 16th centuries, providing an in-depth exploration of the techniques and artistic practices of early printers and illuminators. Readers can expect a detailed analysis of the evolution of book production, illustration, and the various influences that shaped this art form during the Renaissance. The opening of the book presents a preface where Pollard reflects on his initial fascination with the subject matter almost twenty-five years prior to writing. He expresses gratitude for the help he received from various scholars and emphasizes his goal to create an accessible introductory piece rather than a complex scholarly work. The text also outlines the book's structure, indicating the organization by country and key themes, such as the competition between scribes and printers, the emergence of illustrated books, and the differences in artistic styles across Europe. Pollard's careful historical context and emphasis on the craftsmanship of book production set the stage for a deeper understanding of the birth of illustrated books.
Fine Books
"Fine Books" by Alfred W. Pollard is a reference work written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a comprehensive survey of the history of fine printing and book illustration, detailing the evolution of book collecting from the inception of the printed book to the modern day. It covers significant periods and figures in the development of printed literature, making it a valuable resource for bibliophiles and collectors. At the start of the volume, the author introduces the topic of book collecting, referencing its ancient roots during the later Roman Empire and the evolution of collecting practices throughout the Middle Ages. Pollard highlights how book collecting transformed with the advent of printing, leading to new dynamics in ownership and dissemination of knowledge. He discusses prominent collectors such as Jean Grolier and Thomas Wotton, and reflects on the shifting ideals around book ownership—from private libraries intended for personal use to public collections aimed at benefiting scholars and society. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of fine books, their artistic merit, and their historical significance.
An Essay on Colophons, with Specimens and Translations
"An Essay on Colophons, with Specimens and Translations" by Alfred W. Pollard is a scholarly work written in the early 20th century. This publication explores the significance and historical context of colophons in early printed books, emphasizing their role before the widespread use of title pages. The book delves into specific examples from notable historical texts, inviting readers to understand both the bibliographic and personal dimensions of these inscriptions. The beginning of this work introduces readers to the term "colophon," explaining its origin and evolution. It discusses the function of colophons in manuscripts and early printed works, highlighting how they provided essential information about the book's production, such as the printer's name and date of publication. The text also reflects on the cultural implications of colophons, illustrating how early printers, contrasting with their scribe predecessors, began to assert their identity through these end inscriptions. The author sets the stage for a deeper exploration of colophons, hinting at their significance not just as bibliographical artifacts, but as markers of the printer's pride and engagement with the literary community.
Old Picture Books, With Other Essays on Bookish Subjects
"Old Picture Books, With Other Essays on Bookish Subjects" by Alfred W. Pollard is a scholarly collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The work explores the history and significance of illustrated books, particularly focusing on old picture books, woodcuts, and their role in artistic and literary contexts. Pollard draws attention to the craftsmanship involved in the making of these books and the cultural implications of their illustrations. The beginning of this work sets the tone by discussing the evolution of illustrated books, starting from the early 1502 edition of Virgil. Pollard reflects on the duality of illustration as both an art form and a craft that evolves over time. He introduces the reader to various early woodcut makers and how their works not only provided narratives but also infused contemporary life into the stories depicted. The opening portion establishes a rich historical context, showcasing how illustrations were intended for various audiences, thus serving both educational and decorative purposes in literary culture.