THE CLINCHER....
The two images immediately below show the comparison between the technique used in the design of the Hay banknotes and that apparently used in the Boxall/Jestyn copy of the Rubaiyat.
The microcode was written as numbers on the horizontal left-hand edge of the book cover and across the top edge as highlighted. I used a combination of a forensic image analysis tool and UV lighting to reveal the concealed code. The layout/format of the code on the left edge is very similar to that used in the design of the HAY banknotes.
THE GRAPES....
Here you can see the numbers written through the grapes on the title page of the Verse 70 inscription version, Boxall copy of the Rubaiyat. I believe that this example can be enhanced and will post that when I have it.
UPDATE 12 APRIL 22
In response to a suggestion in the comments, I have included below the same views shown of the Boxall copy for both the Traish copy and my own copy of the same edition.
TRAISH COPY
1. Top Left of page:
It seems that this image shows quite a different type of paper, more expensive? It could be embossed or just a [particular design of the pages. Will follow up with BT on that. In contrast with the Boxall copy, there is no sign of any numbers or letters anywhere on this image.
2. Grapes:
Quite a different image response for the grapes as you can see, markings within the grapes but no discernible numbers or letters can be seen.
GC COPY
1. Top left corner:
In this image, we see that what appears to be another type of paper has been used in the production process. There are markings but no numbers or letters can be seen as in the Boxall copy of the same edition.
2. The Grapes:
The image of the grapes above is similar to the Traish copy but the texture of the paper is noticeably different.nThe outlines are visible and there are markings within the grapes but nothing that resembles letters or numbers as per the Boxall copy.
For those that may not know, the Boxall copy of the Rubaiyat bears a small white label on the inside of the front cover. It gives the name of the bookshop from where it may have been purchased, such labels were invented in 1932 so it appears to be a genuine label.
ReplyDeleteTHE CRAFTSMAN BOOKSHOP
It was at number 10(?) Hosking Place in the city of Sydney just off Pitt Street. Interestingly that is just a 400 metre walk, 5 minutes, from the Whitcombe and Tombs shop situated situated at 12 Barrack Street in the city.
Maybe the Whitcombe and Tombs book was bought from the Craftsman bookshop? The adverts for them seemed to be a bit arty.
ReplyDeleteThanks for that, yes it is possible that both books were bought from the same bookshop but there is no record of just which city the Whitcombe and Tombs book was bought nor which country for that matter. If we had the book to view that might just have had the shop address within it.
DeleteThey look like numbers but it would be better if we could see the same exercise with the Traish and your copy.
ReplyDeleteGood point and I have added the images that you suggested as a further comparison in the updated post above. Many Thanks!
ReplyDeleteJust for you Pete. Regarding micro writing and how difficult it might be execute, the simple answer is that it's not hard at all. I have seen 9 year olds write very effectively at sub 1mm, immediately after being shown. The same goes for 20, 30 and 40 year olds. All that's required is reasonable eyesight and good fine motor skills. So it really is no big issue. Pretty much anyone can do it and pick up the finer skills very quickly.
ReplyDeleteWith regards to this audience, they are very loyal and have been with me for years, I consistently provide substantiated information and where I can't substantiate it, I say so.
As far as your other questions go, the book will be out soon and you may be able to find what you're looking for in there.
I have a great deal of work on my plate right now so my apologies in advance, I won't have any time to discuss this further with you.
One last thing though, I understand it's your Birthday this week, I hope you have a memorable day surrounded by your friends and family. Happy Birthday Pete.