Synopses & Reviews
A unique Smithsonian coloring book featuring the letters of the alphabet from rare illuminated books and manuscripts
Abecedarium: A Decorated Initials Adult Coloring Book for Bibliophiles introduces the beauty and history of decorated letters drawn from rare books of the fifteenth through the twentieth centuries from the Smithsonian's Dibner Library of the History of Science and Technology. The letters are organized in alphabetical order and printed in black and white for readers to colorize. Accompanying each letter is the story of its rare book source, its artist, and its historical context. This coloring book is a contemplative and inspiring way to experience art, science, and culture from the Renaissance through early modern times.
About the Author
Lilla Vekerdy is head of the special collections department at the Smithsonian's Dibner Library of the History of Science and Technology. She oversees eight rare book collections and has written numerous publications on the history of medicine and rare book studies.
Morgan Aronson is a library technician with the Dibner Library.