The course will start by giving a brief introduction to the history of bookmaking in Ethiopia , its connections to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (one of the oldest of all Orthodox Churches) and how it appears that very early bookmaking techniques seem to have survived relatively unchanged in the country. Some of the influences on, and changes in, writing and decoration style over the centuries will also be discussed.

The main emphasis of the course will be to describe the craft of bookmaking in Ethiopia as it is today with descriptions, slides and videos showing the techniques of parchment preparation, pen making, the production of ink and colours, writing, book decoration and binding. Some of the more recent influences on changes of styles and techniques will be outlined.

No previous knowledge of Ethiopia or bookmaking required.

Bibliography:
D.L. Appleyard, Ethiopian Manuscripts (Jed Press, London, 1993);
R. Grierson, ed., African Zion; The Sacred Art of Ethiopia (Yale University, New Haven, 1993);
R. Reed, Ancient Skins, Parchments and Leathers (Seminar Press, London, 1972);
Sergew Hable Selassie, Bookmaking in Ethiopia (Leiden, 1981);
J.A. Szirmai, The Archaeology of Medieval Bookbinding (Ashgate, Aldershot,1999)

Maximum: 25-30 students
AV: Video Projector (preferably XGA or higher resolution) with sound + computer

Please bring a pencil: pens are not allowed when valuable manuscript facsimiles are in use