GOLDEN COCKEREL PRESS. ~ The Birth of Christ from the Gospel according to Saint Luke.
No. 82 of 370. 13 wood engravings by Noel Rooke. Printed in red and black in Caslon type by Robert Gibbings, book design by Noel Rooke. 22.1 x 15.3 cm. 8vo., original niger backed blue paper covered boards, gilt lettering on spine. Some marking to rear boards, otherwise very good with the original tissue guards.
A beautifully designed Christmas book by Noel Rooke for the Golden Cockerel Press. Rooke (1881-1953) was a key figure in the revival of British wood engraving in the 20th century. He taught at Central school for many years with many of the great engravers of the time coming under his expert guidance. He was a superb book designer, often working with J.H. Mason from the Doves Press who later was the Head of Printing at Central. They worked in tandem marrying type, text and illustration - this book is a perfect showcase for Rooke’s skills.
Booklabel of James Leighton.