Lilian Simpson. Arts & Crafts book covers

An Arts and Crafts book covers designed by M. Lilian Simpson circa 1894-96 for the Art Union, engraved mark 'ART UNION OF LONDON 1st JANUARY 1896', with silver plated mounts. A hinged clasp and morocco binding, the title page with notes on the designer and design, the remaining leaves blank (with some later use), 24.5cm (9.5in) x 20cm (8in) See Carruthers. Annette and Greensted, Mary 'Simplicity or Splendour. Arts and Crafts Living: Objects from the Cheltenham Collections Cheltenham 1999', p. 143-144, item 183 for another example. The design relates to the Growth of Life watched over by Angels and Love: the central figure kisses the buds into life. Miss Simpson won a gold medal in a National competition of all the schools of Art under the Science and Art department in 1894 and it was exhibited in the Royal Academy in 1896. The design relates to the growth of Life watched over by angels and Love: the central figure kisses the buds into life. Miss Simpson won a gold medal in a National competition of all the schools of Art under the Science and Art department in 1894 and it was exhibited in the Royal Academy in 1896.