[Binding, Fine- Roycroft Bindery: Kinder, Louis, One of His Finest] Friendship

East Aurora: Roycroft Press, 1903. First Edition. First Edition. 4to, (11 1/2 x 8 inches). Limited of 50 Copies Only. One of Louis Kinder's greatest bindings, a monument in design form and and execution, on a large scale format, which are extremely scarce and sought after. The binding, in full sumptuous turquoise crushed morocco, features a striking design of inlaid morocco and ornate gilt tooling in graceful arching geometric patterns. There are eight large olive green morocco inlays that form outer arches coming together in four concave spaces at each corners which are filled with gilt-tooled spiral cross-hatches. Along with stars and winding gilt ruling (nearly all over), the covers feature a central panel surrounded by curving stylized garlands. At middle, bottom there is wonderful gilt tooled device (((())))) and at the middle top, a pair of clasped hands. The spine, with five raised bands and six large panels is further tooled in gilt with a similar design motif. Finally, the dentelles are wide and contain many of the same elements as the covers, with gorgeous silk moire doublures and endsheets. Importantly, this very binding was used by Kinder as the frontispiece in his book, "Formula For Bookbinders," chosen by him to highlight the very best of his talent and abilities. Hand-illumined by Harriet Robarge. Signed and numbered to limitation page, #16 of only 50 copies, by Elbert Hubbard, and illumined by Harriet Robarge." In presentation box with gilt morocco label. This was the highest priced and most elaborately decorated books of Roycroft Press in their heyday, basically 1900-1907, and this Kinder high spot certainly represents what must have been the zenith. Fine condition. "On a High Shelf," David Ogle OB-079-03, and pictured in color on pg. 202.