The Studio yearbook of decorative art (1914)

THE BOOK OF KELLS has been described by Professor Westwood
as ** the most beautiful book in the world.” Those who have seen and
studied the consummate beauty of this gem of Celtic manuscript, its
rich and subtle colouring, its amazingly intricate and gorgeous designs,
its quaint portraiture, and bold, legible text, are not likely to question
this description. The last attempt to reproduce in colours pages of this
unique and wonderful book was made nearly forty years ago. Since then
photography and colour'reproduction have made such rapid advances
towards accuracy that, with the permission of the authorities of Trinity
College. Dublin, the Editor of The Studio has decided to issue a volume
in which the most beautiful and important pages, and many of the
wonderful initials of the Book of Kells, will be reproduced in colours. The
Editor has been engaged upon this work for some years and advantage has
been taken of the latest developments in artistic reproduction with a view
to making the illustrations as perfect as possible. For artists, and particu^
larly for designers, the Book of Kells has proved a fruitful source of
inspiration; indeed, to all interested in art in any form this masterpiece of
illuminated manuscript is a household word. The letterpress by
Sir Edward Sullivan, who has made a life-long study of old Celtic
manuscripts, will be found of absorbing interest.
The format of the volume will be royal quarto (considerably larger than
the ordinary issue of The Studio), and the size of each plate will be about
9 by 62 inches. The work is nearing completion and will be issued
shortly, and as the edition will be strictly limited, orders should be placed
at once.
PRICES: In wrappers, 10s net; in handsome cloth binding, 12s 6d net.
(Postage extra: Inland, 6d; Abroad, xs and is 6d). The work may be
obtained from any bookseller, or direct from the
Offices of THE STUDIO, 44 Leicester Square, London, W.C.

AD. XIV