Folio

Title page William Shakespeare's First Folio 1623

Khalili Collection Islamic Art kfq 0096

Folio-Quarto-Octavo Compared

Gutenberg Bible, Lenox Copy, New York Public Library, 2009. Pic 01

Recto and verso

Folio refers to a specific format in the context of books and manuscripts, where a single sheet of paper is folded once, creating two leaves or four pages. The term has its origins in the Latin word folium, meaning "leaf". Historically, the folio format was commonly used for important literary and religious works, offering a larger page size that was suitable for elaborate typography, illuminated manuscripts, and detailed illustrations.

History

The use of the folio format dates back to the earliest days of printing press technology in the 15th century. The Gutenberg Bible, printed by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1450s, is one of the most famous examples of an early printed book in folio format. This era marked a significant shift from handwritten manuscripts to mass-produced books, making literature more accessible to a wider audience.

In the centuries that followed, the folio format remained popular for prestigious publications such as encyclopedias, atlases, and literary works. The size of a folio made it ideal for displaying large pieces of text and detailed images, making it a preferred choice for works that required a grand presentation.

Characteristics

A folio is typically larger than other book formats such as quarto or octavo, which are created by folding a sheet of paper two or three times, respectively. The standard size of a folio can vary, but it is generally around 15 inches (38 cm) tall or larger. The exact dimensions can differ based on the size of the original sheet of paper and the era in which the book was produced.

Modern Usage

In contemporary times, the term folio is often used more broadly to refer to any book that is approximately folio size, regardless of how the book was actually printed. Additionally, in the publishing and graphic design industries, "folio" can also refer to the page number itself, especially in the context of layout and design.

Collectibility

Folio books, especially those from the 15th to 17th centuries, are highly prized by collectors and libraries for their historical and aesthetic value. The craftsmanship involved in creating a folio, from the typesetting and printing to the binding and illustration, makes each folio a unique artifact of its time.

Folio Society

The Folio Society is a modern publisher known for creating high-quality reproductions of classic works in folio format. Founded in 1947, the society aims to produce books that are not only literary masterpieces but also beautiful objects in their own right. The Folio Society editions often include specially commissioned illustrations and are bound using traditional techniques.

Conclusion

The folio format holds a significant place in the history of bookmaking and continues to be celebrated for its aesthetic and practical qualities. Whether as historical artifacts or modern collectibles, folio books embody the enduring value and beauty of the printed word.