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Exploring the Artistic Nature of Curation with Christopher's Rare Books

Christopher De Lotbiniere of Christopher’s Rare Books took advantage of his artistic eye and interest in the visual arts transitioning from being a full time painter into a career as a book dealer specializing in modern first editions and children’s books. This transition came about rather naturally as he had previously worked in publishing, studied English Literature in university as an undergraduate, and has been a lifelong book collector. 

His interest in artistically striking book jackets began at an exhibit in San Francisco. Each room contained a collection of paintings from the 50’s, 60’s and 70's and had a selection of books published during that decade at the entrance with artwork on the jackets commissioned by artists to represent the feeling of the time. He emphasized that jackets add an immense value to the book especially if they are graphically interesting. 

While De Lotbiniere said that he loves selling to other dealers, he also makes a real effort to bring less expensive inventory to entice people into the world of collecting. 

“It’s sort of a crazy game to find books that kindle enthusiasm in people. Especially with children’s books, they have this very strong emotional connection. You’re trying to bring to them a book which reminds them of something,” he said. 


De Lotbiniere typically attends around 10 book fairs every year, also selling on his digital storefronts at Biblio.com and Abebooks.com. Come see what Christopher’s Rare books has to offer at the Northampton Book Fair in the Community Arts Trust the 22nd and 23rd of November located at 33 Hawley Street. 


Written by: Cassandra Mayer - October 3rd, 2024


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