Publisher · United Kingdom · defunct since 1898

Kelmscott Press

Printing company founded by William Morris. Founded 1891 in United Kingdom. Ceased 1898.

About Kelmscott Press

The Kelmscott Press, founded by William Morris and Emery Walker, published 53 books in 66 volumes between 1891 and 1898. Each book was designed and ornamented by Morris and printed by hand in limited editions of around 300. Many books were illustrated by Edward Burne-Jones. Kelmscott Press books sought to replicate the style of 15th-century printing and were part of the Gothic revival movement. Kelmscott Press started the contemporary fine press movement, which focuses on the craft and design of bookmaking, often using hand presses. While their most famous books are richly decorated, most Kelmscott Press books did not have elaborate decoration, but were published simply. Morris was interested in medieval book design, visiting the Bodleian Library often with Burne-Jones to examine illuminated manuscripts. He designed and published several books before founding Kelmscott Press.

From the Wikipedia article “Kelmscott Press”, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Approaching Kelmscott Press as an author

Kelmscott Press is no longer an active publisher (defunct since 1898). Its books may still be in print through successor companies or available second-hand and in libraries.

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