Handmade Herb Lore Manuscript Book c1900 – Calligraphy & Painted Floral Borders
 
Item Description
 
This is a stunning and unusual Handmade Herb Lore Manuscript Book, written in calligraphy and adorned with hand-painted floral decoration. With its personal craftsmanship and artistic details, this volume is a rare and unique survival.
 
Provenance & Dating
 
While undated, the materials, style, and handwork suggest a late Victorian to early 20th century origin, possibly created in the spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement. Its purpose appears to have been private – either for personal use, study, or as a gift.
 
Exterior Condition
 
Bound in a cloth-backed spine with paper-covered boards
Hand-applied label on the front board reading Herb Lore
Boards remain intact and secure, though slightly worn with age
Thread binding still holds the text block together, though slightly loose
Overall, a charming, sturdy handmade binding of character
 
Interior Condition
 
Opening page: a full-page hand-painted floral illustration (no text)
Most pages contain herbal remedies handwritten in black calligraphy, many framed with ornate painted floral borders; a few are text-only
Paper is superior, rough-cut at edges, chosen for ink and watercolour
Pages remain neat and clean, with only very light age-toning
Binding slightly loose at the thread but still secure
Total: 16 pages (including endpapers)
Approx. 13 × 13 × 0.7 cm, 79 grams
 
Significance
 
This is more than a book, it is a work of art, blending herbal knowledge with personal creativity. Every page reflects dedication, patience, and beauty. Such handmade manuscripts are rare survivals, valued both for their artistry and their intimate connection to past traditions of herbal knowledge.
 
Condition Report
 
Exterior: Light wear to boards, cloth spine intact, hand-applied title label present
Interior: Neat, clean, hand-painted floral borders, minimal age-toning, thread binding slightly loose
Complete: All 16 pages present, including the striking hand-painted opening page