Decorative Paper with an Overall Scallop and Palmette Pattern in Black and Blue

Alongside other applications, decorative printed papers of this kind formed a cheaper alternative to full leather book covers. They were most often used to wrap smaller pamphlets, or cahiers and booklets consisting of only a few quires. This custom became especially popular during the second half of the eighteenth century and, accordingly, the production of these papers was widespread and incredibly varied. In general, most patterns were designed as endless repeats so that the paper could be used to cover objects of varying sizes. In addition, the same woodblocks would sometimes also be used to print on fabric. The quality of the patterns ranged from messily printed simple designs in one single color to incredibly fine and elaborate compositions in two, three, or four colors. This particular pattern is printed in black and blue, but makes clever use of the white color of the paper to complete the design.