A CALLIGRAPHIC TRIBUTE TO DA VINCI

Howell, Mary Wherrette (Calligrapher/Designer)

Leonardo da Vinci: The Last Supper [Privately Printed Calligraphic Artist Book]

Orlando: Dickson's Inc. [Privately Printed for Wherrette Studio], 1961. Limited Edition.
A STUDIO MASTERPIECE OF TYPOGRAPHY FEATURING THE VISUAL DRAMA OF HAND LETTERING IN AN ARTIST BOOK OF THE LAST SUPPER
A striking example of mid-century Floridian book arts, designed to showcase the calligraphic skill of Mary Wherrette Howell.
This privately printed production serves as a devotional homage to Da Vinci, featuring hand-lettered text reproduced in facsimile, architectural layouts, and a unique 'layered' binding construction.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Visuals: Entire text is rendered in elaborate calligraphy; illustrated with sepia-toned reproductions of Da Vinci's sketches and the final mural.
+++ Binding: Distinctive 'Tri-Layer' stiff paper wraps with a die-cut window or inset plate on the cover; interior features dramatic red layout papers.
+++ Signature: Inscribed by the artist on a dedicated presentation leaf: 'To Maxine with affection - M.W.'
+++ Imprint: Produced by 'William Bunker, Master Craftsman' for Dickson's Inc, Orlando.
+++ Rarity: Scarce. OCLC/Worldcat locates no institutional copies, suggesting a very small print run for private distribution.

CONDITION: Near Fine. The interior pages are fine, bright, and clean. The exterior wrappers show distinct age-toning and a rectangular 'sun-fade' outline on the front cover. There is moderate wear to the spine ends and corners. A solid copy of a fragile production.
+++ Specs: 12.5 inches tall / Unpaginated.

While ostensibly a book about Da Vinci, this artifact is primarily significant as a specimen of Commercial Book Arts from the pre-digital era.

It represents the high standard of 'Vanity' or 'Studio' printing in Florida during the early 1960s, where typography and layout were physical crafts. Mary Wherrette Howell ran a design studio in Orlando, and this volume likely served as a portfolio piece to demonstrate her mastery of classical lettering and layout.

SUBJECTS: Calligraphy, Book Arts, Florida History, Graphic Design, Leonardo da Vinci, Typography, Private Press, Orlando.

Item #21525

Price: $125.00