The Tudor and Stuart periods in Britain were notable for embroidered bookbindings. The styles were sophisticated and varied and probably sewn by professional embroiderers. The materials used (including velvets, satins, silks, metal threads) were extremely expensive, meaning only the highest and wealthiest sections of society could enjoy them. Such covers were reserved for significant texts, frequently devotional works and the money expended was a demonstration of the owner’s piety and taste. These items are historic and unique but most are fragile and at risk. Extensive repairs or rebinding would destroy the very elements which make the bindings important; a 3D image will help preserve them.

These models were created in 2023 for a British Library project funded by the The Broderers’ Charity Trust to encourage interest and educate the public and researchers alike. It was undertaken by Conservation and Printed Heritage Collections to provide surrogates for the fragile bindings.