Paperblanks Safavid Binding Art

Paperblanks Safavid Binding Art Journal and Storage Collection

Ancient Islam produced countless treasures, most notably decorative bookbinding. Under the Safavid Dynasty (1501-1722), design and production reached a pinnacle. Artisans engraved whole designs on single metal plates, which were then pressed into tinted Moroccan leather. They then engraved symmetrical designs on dies half the size and impressed those to complete the design. This technique was often combined with gilding and stamping, creating patterns laden with medallions, quadrants, and plant and animal motifs. Artisans often pierced the leather covers to let the decorative paper or silk pages peek through.

With this collection, Paperblanks immerses you in the Islamic Golden Age. Pentagonal envelope flap closures, elaborately decorated interior covers (doublures), colored papers, hand-tooled surfaces and leather filigree patterns recall an empire that was the center of art, architecture, poetry and philosophy. The elegant journals and storage box are unique vessels, perfect for archiving your own period treasures.