In our last chapter, we dealt with backs that were simply filleted in gold and blind tooling. Let us now advance a step in decoration

and advert to what is generally called "half gilt." Here the back is provided with the raised bands, and these are tooled in gold, generally by working a broad pallet or roll, with a pattern on it, across them. A tool mayor may not be worked

in the centre of each space between the bands. If it is used, it is worked in gold. The patterns for pallets and roll edges are

almost infinite in number. Pallets cost from about 4s. 6d. to 10s. 6d. each, according to size and elaborateness of pattern; rolls from 10s. to 40s., according to pattern and diameter of roll. We have given some, and adduce a few more at Figs. 123 and 124. The patterns given at Fig. 124 are more novel in character, and generally imitative of floral or plant forms. These are very light and elegant, and may be had in great variety. They were, we believe, originally introduced by the Messrs. Sharwood, tool.

cutters (now out of business). The amateur should look through a tool-cutter's specimen book, and select those that meet his taste. In forming a judgment, it is well to remember that the impression in gold will look heavier than that in printing ink, in the specimen book. Amongst bookbinder's tool cutters we may mention the following: Knight and Cottrell, 9 and 10, St. Bride's-avenue, Fleet-street; Hughes and Kimber, West Harding-street, E.O.; Thomas Francis, 10, Old Bailey, E.O.; and Frederic Knights, 10, Bolt court, Fleet-street. Others may be found in the London Post Office Directory.

With regard to the separate "tools," such as would be worked in the centre of the inter-band spaces, Fig. 125 shows several varieties. Fig. 126 shows a half-gilt back. Although very effective, this class of work may be done quite quickly, because there is little or no working of separate tools. There is a kind of pallet made especially for working across bands, which may be had of any length, and in varied patterns. Several of these are shown at Fig. 127.
A "full-gilt" back has, as its title imports, the whole of the

"back covered with gilt tooling.

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