If you have old books in your library, you may want to check if they contain this amazing secret called “fore-edge painting.” It’s an illustration technique hidden on the edge of the pages of a book. It’s an intricate art that is said to date back to the 1650s.
You will be able to see the painting by bending together the pages of the book. See for yourself.
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
So much time and dedication was put into each masterpiece. The results speak for themselves.
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
There are also books that contain double fore-edge paintings. You will be able to see a different image by flipping the book over and fanning the pages in opposite direction. Amazing.
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
These fantastic works of art are being sold today for hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of dollars.
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
Autumn by Robert Mudie / Special Collections & University Archives at the University of Iowa
Credit: Special Collections & Archives, University of Iowa blog
Here are three more amazing videos of fore-edge paintings found on YouTube:
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