This model of the Coptic binding (sometimes also known as the Ethiopian binding) shown above is based on Szirmai’s description of one of the earliest and most enduring forms of bookbinding. The Copts in Egypt developed this method during the 2nd to 4th centuries AD, and it remains in use today. In addition, this technique represents the earliest form of the book as we recognize it today.

Coptic Binding Construction

Consisting of a cut-away model, this binding showcases the structural elements of the Coptic binding method. I’ve based its construction on Szirmai’s descriptions in his “Archaeology of Medieval Bookbinding.” However, very little is known about historical bindings; the last ones were lost as late as the 1950s. Overall, It’s only relatively recent that there’s more interest in the bindings themselves.

The cover of this model consists of two layers: the leather outer layer and a cloth reinforcement of the spine. Since Szirmai doesn’t provide an explanation of their purpose, I can only speculate. By adding a cloth backing prior to sewing the endbands, Coptic binders probably intended to reinforce the spine.

Spine

In the image above, one might notice the triangular shape caused by the boards not lying perfectly parallel to each other. This happens because the leather pushes the book outwards at the bottom, while no such force acts at the top. By comparison, had I fully covered this binding in leather, this issue wouldn’t occur.

This indeed doesn’t appear to happen in my cut-away Carolingian binding, since it has leather tabs on each end. Additionally, the Carolingian method of binding innovated on the Coptic model by introducing thick cords for the spine. Compared to the Coptic link-stitch, these provide a more durable connection between signatures and boards.

Sewing

The distinctive feature of Coptic bindings is undoubtedly the link or chain stitch, which derives its name from the way loops of thread link the signatures to each other. It both creates the characteristic look of a chain running over the spine and allows allows for flat-opening books. Over time, mechanical stresses can however cause the thread to break where its attached to the boards.

Endbands

I’ve used the link-stitch for the endbands, too. However, Szirmai doesn’t offer a clear explanation on how to attach these to the boards. Therefore, I improvised by continuing the endbands over the boards in a way sometimes seen on Ethiopian or Byzantine bindings. This caused a noticeable row of bumps underneath the leather.

Covering the boards in leather makes the extended endband disappear. Unfortunately, there are no manuscript in their original binding remaining to see if this was the case in the ancient manuscripts as well. Petersens drawings of the original bindings from 1949 (published in Szirmai’s book) would suggest to me this would’ve been the case.

Clasps

I made clasps from 0,5 mm thick brass plating, by drilling and (lots and lots of) filing away the excess material. They attach onto hooks made from ⌀ 4 mm brass rod, which I milled into a rounded orb shape. Due to making mistakes, I ran out of the correct color of leather. Instead, I attached belts made from a constrasting colored hide.