"Dangerously Near to Absolute Perfection"

The Friendship Behind Dove's Press

The collaboration between Thomas Cobden Sanderson and Emery Walker served as a foundation for the creation of Dove's Press, a venture aimed at producing beautifully crafted books. Their partnership, rooted in mutual respect and shared artistic vision, allowed them to blend their different backgrounds and skills, with Cobden Sanderson providing creative direction and Walker managing the practical aspects of printing. As they worked closely together, both men found inspiration in the arts and crafts movement, which emphasized handmade quality over mass production. The affectionate moments they shared, reflected in personal gifts and political ideals, laid an essential groundwork for their ambitious project but would later be challenged by diverging priorities.