The Art & History of Books is a tightly written and lavishly illustrated panorama of book design from its earliest history to recent years. Tracing the history of fine books against a background of changing patrons, improving technology, religious and social change, and the state of the arts throughout the world, this volume encompasses both illustrated and unillustrated books with a breadth of detail not found in any other work. With 176 facsimile pages from books of unusual beauty or interest, many of them photographed especially for this volume, The Art & History of Books is more than a valuable reference source: it is a perfect example of expert design, cogent description, and relevant illustration.