The intricate rules that governed life during Holy Week deserved to be housed in a similarly momentous and ornate binding. In cultures all over the world, the first full moon after the vernal equinox is a sacred time.

The cover reproduced here protected “L’office de la Semaine Sainte,“ which explained the many rites and observances to be followed during the most important period in the Christian calendar.

The entire surface of the original cover was adorned “à la fanfare,” an elaborate, handtooled pattern edged in gilt. “Fanfare,” which was a style popular from the late 1500s until the early 1700s, required tremendous skill on the part of the bookbinder and was reserved for books of great importance.

Our cover, featuring a tendril motif, reproduces a 1688 binding from the Düsseldorf Museum Kunstpalast.

These journals are very eco friendly and are made by one of the best British publisher who understands how to combine exquisite craftsmanship with environmental commitment. The acid-free paper is made with only sustainable forest pulp and binder boards are made with 100% recycled paper.

Features include a spacious memento pouch that provides a haven for all those loose papers/spells collected along the way, and a ribbon marker helps you to find where you left off.