Conservation of a Rare Book: The Alberti Models for Georgian Architecture

Historic Odessa Foundation owns a very special rare book, a third edition of a copiously illustrated book on Leon Batista Alberti’s Renaissance architecture and designs published in London in 1755, a book that was the major reference for 18th century Georgian architecture in England and America. This copy was owned by, and is autographed by, Robert May, the architect for the Corbit-Sharp House.

In the summer of 2010, conservation intern Eve Mayberger and HOF conservator Betty Fiske carried out a complete treatment of this rare book. Other copies of the book in a number of libraries were examined by Ms Mayberger to document the variations in the three editions and the state of the HOF copy.

In consultation with two senior book conservators, the course of treatment and rebinding were determined. This 30 minute Power Point lecture focuses on the research and decision-making process as well as the seven weeks of treatment of this extraordinary book. Eve will also present this lecture at the annual meeting of the American Institute for Conservation on June 3rd.

Please join us to learn about this conservation project and see the restored book.