British Library database of book bindings:
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Unfortunately, they didn't include the measurements for the examples, so they have to be looked up individually by the shelf number.
Many manuscripts have been rebound by the holding repositories, often for conservation reasons. This may be the original binding. Eastern Mediterranean, c. 1312. The book is 203 x 140 mm. Canvas binding on wooden boards, with a rough cross bearing the inscription ΑΠΟΣΤΟΛΟΝ incised on the upper cover.
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I don't know how representative this is and unfortunately don't have time to look through enough of them to know.
Can we assume that board bindings would last longer than leather? Does leather start to crack and wear out in a few decades if it is not oiled?
Can we assume that "more important" books would be better bound and thus last longer? (I don't know the answers to any of these questions.)
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.
Unfortunately, they didn't include the measurements for the examples, so they have to be looked up individually by the shelf number.
Many manuscripts have been rebound by the holding repositories, often for conservation reasons. This may be the original binding. Eastern Mediterranean, c. 1312. The book is 203 x 140 mm. Canvas binding on wooden boards, with a rough cross bearing the inscription ΑΠΟΣΤΟΛΟΝ incised on the upper cover.
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.
I don't know how representative this is and unfortunately don't have time to look through enough of them to know.
Can we assume that board bindings would last longer than leather? Does leather start to crack and wear out in a few decades if it is not oiled?
Can we assume that "more important" books would be better bound and thus last longer? (I don't know the answers to any of these questions.)