MCM Yale Medical Library Printing Block: Replica of 1534 The Castle of Health Title Page

A unique find indeed, this relief printing plate/letterpress block with mirror-image (reversed) letters, intricate pillars, and 1534 carved in the base was one part of the Historical Library, Yale Medical Library, Yale University. This replica printing block of the first edition title page of “The Castle of Health” by Sir Thomas Elyot was created sometime after 1967. (Yes, you read that correct, the original book was published when Henry VIII was King of England.) Perfect gift for bibliophiles, medical historians, Ivy League memorabilia collectors, Yale School of Medicine alumni, those interested in early printing processes, or English History.

Block measures approximately 5.5x3.25x ⅞”
Paper attached to the back of the block reads:
Title page of the first edition of “The Castle of Health,” Historical Library, Yale Medical Library, Yale University 1536-1539? (From The Life and Times of Sir Thomas Elyot, Englishman by Pearl Hogrefe)

‘The Castle of Health’ was a popular handbook of accessible medicine written in English rather than Latin. It introduced health and dietary advice directly to the public.
Though the original block would have been made completely out of wood, this one is engraved metal mounted on a wood block. Pearl Hogrefe’s work referenced on the back was published in 1967.
A picture of the original title page can be found at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Title_page,_T._Elyot;_%22The_Castel_of_Helth..%22,_1539_Wellcome_L0000153.jpg

As a child, I loved going with my mama and grandparents to yard sales, estate sales, and thrift stores as we shared the love of sifting for treasures. That tradition has been continued into my adulthood and I am honored to share my unique finds with you.

Most items in my shop are vintage and are not brand new and come from estate sales. The items may show minor age-related wear and/or minor flaws consistent with the date of manufacture (please be sure to check photos carefully as they are part of the description). I do my best to describe any imperfections. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask!

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