Books. You’ll find millions of them around London, whether it’s the fresh copies of the giant Waterstones in Piccadilly, or the tiny hole-in-the-wall shop sat among your local haunts. This has been the case for hundreds of years, but some of the books scattered around have become harder than others to get your hands on.
Enter this rare book fair at the Saatchi Gallery. While the prices might make your eyes water a little (yes, you will see some seven-figure listings on their site), this may be your only chance to get a hold of a certain edition or title of a copy you previously thought unattainable.
Until May 19, you’ll be able to swan into the West London gallery gallery to see the fair, which this year has a theme of ‘The Art Of The Book. You’ll be able to gaze at the beautifully bindings, illustrated Natural History Books, photography collections and much more.
Over 100 esteemed book dealers will be on hand to show their finest collections on offer for you to consider buying for a big price (or just admire). For example, Paul Foster is bringing a book that is often described as the first interactive book ever published, which was the first using moveable tabs, called Le Livre Joujou by M. Bres.
Across the fair, you’ll also be able to see Japanese woodblock printing, illuminated Qur’ans; calligraphy, cartography and much more. Sure, some might cost £20,000 but you’ll be able to see them all up close!
Have a flick through some of the rarest of rare books on their site (some with prices hitting seven figures!), and then head on down to the Saatchi Gallery (Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3 4RY) to check out the Rare Book Fair, which runs until May 19. Book beforehand with a £5 admission fee here.