The Malleus Maleficarum Binding

Although several editions of this fascinating work have been printed since the original in 1487, it is interesting that it took 441 years for the first edition in English to be printed. One theory for this might be that the information provided in the “ Witches Hammer” soon became scrutinized and many falsehoods were revealed. Another theory might be that those educated in the original latin printings might have wanted to maintain such power over the illiterate majority.

Whatever the reason, the binding design required a potent expression of just how dark and damaging a book filled with such misinformation can be…a theme which echoes into our modern world.

The front cover depicts an abandoned European village with darkened buildings beginning to fall into ruin. Three bodies dangle from an old stone bridge, perhaps the last to be accused of invoking a plague. Judged as witches, their execution rendering no gain or salvation for the once scapegoat hungry inhabitants.

The back cover reveals a strong, powerful female figure releasing delicate flower petals into the wind. At her back is an old tree, its rotting roots nourishing a community of mushrooms at it’s base. A single branch mimicking the woman’s pose, connecting her with nature’s true power.

Held in a private collection - Salt Lake City, Utah

Bound by Felton Bookbinding Ltd. Photography by Gary William Ogle.