For enthusiasts of classic literature and the art of bookmaking, the Doctor Edition stands as a remarkable tribute to Mary Shelley’s timeless novel, Frankenstein. This limited edition, capped at just 300 numbered and signed copies, is not merely a book; it’s an experience, meticulously crafted to embody the spirit of the ambitious doctor and the themes woven throughout his iconic tale. Like the complex relationship between creator and creation in the story of Frankenstein’s doctor, this edition forges a deep connection between concept and execution, resulting in a truly unique collector’s item.
A Cover Inspired by the Doctor’s World
The Doctor Edition immediately captivates with its cover, ingeniously designed to evoke an operating table – the very setting where Frankenstein’s doctor brought his creation to life. Aluminium forms the core of the cover, lending a cool, metallic touch that speaks to the scientific nature of the narrative. This is expertly quarter-bound in luxurious black leather, while the spine is elegantly blocked with silver foil. Perhaps the most striking feature is the inclusion of a genuine surgeon’s needle, embedded directly into the front cover, a bold and symbolic element representing the tools of Frankenstein’s doctor. Laser engraving adds further intricate details, culminating in a cover that unequivocally earns its designation as The Doctor Edition.
Delving Deeper: Endpapers, Title, and Interactive Illustrations
Upon opening The Doctor Edition, readers are greeted by handmade marbled endpapers, a bespoke touch from the renowned Freya Scott of Paperwilds. These are crafted in a cellular pattern, a subtle yet significant nod to Victor Frankenstein’s scientific pursuits and the biological nature of his creation. Even the book’s title holds a hidden surprise, adding another layer of intrigue for those who seek it.
However, the true brilliance of this edition lies in its creative concept, deeply rooted in the novel’s exploration of connection and isolation. Frankenstein is fundamentally a story about the monster’s yearning for connection, his intelligence, his capacity for care, and his profound loneliness. Each illustration in its initial state depicts moments where the monster encounters humanity, only to be met with rejection and fear. These are not simply printed images; they are hand-screen printed with thermochromic ink. When touched, this ink becomes transparent, revealing a hidden, offset-printed illustration beneath. This ingenious design offers a glimpse into an alternate narrative – a poignant “what if” scenario where the monster might have been accepted. This complex, two-phase illustration process, masterfully executed by illustrator Yana Adamović, perfectly captures the dual nature of the story and the potential for different outcomes based on human interaction with Frankenstein’s doctor‘s creation.
Further enhancing the reading experience, each chapter begins with beautifully designed drop caps. And for a unique bookmark, a scalpel-shaped marker is included, allowing readers to figuratively “cut” into the monster to save their place, a playful yet thematic detail.
The Doctor’s Tool Bag: A Solander Box
The Doctor Edition is housed in a solander box meticulously crafted to resemble a doctor’s tool bag from the era of Frankenstein’s doctor. Opening this box is akin to unveiling a precious artifact, revealing a rich velvet interior where the book rests securely.
Production Excellence and Material Choices
The creation of this Frankenstein edition demanded unconventional materials to achieve its unparalleled uniqueness. The solander box is bound in a material composed of 85% genuine leather fibres, adorned with a metal title plate on the spine and lined internally with recycled leather and plush purple velvet for ultimate protection.
The book itself is quarter-bound in the finest black goatskin leather with an aniline finish, sourced from Didier Lieutard in France. The aluminium covers, complete with the embedded surgeon’s needle, and the silver foil spine blocking, speak to the high level of craftsmanship. The marbled endpapers are handmade using a spectrum of colours, including metallics, to create the cellular pattern. The text is printed offset on Fedrigoni Savile Row 100g paper, chosen for its luxurious texture. The thermochromic ink screen-printed over the illustrations adds the interactive dimension, reacting to warmth at 25 degrees Celsius, a delicate balance that brings the illustrations to life with human touch. It’s important to note that the hand-screen printing process means slight variations in the thermochromic ink overlap are intentional, reflecting the unpredictable nature of interaction and the nuanced theme of human connection explored in the context of Frankenstein’s doctor‘s narrative. The book is Smyth sewn with black thread and glued for exceptional durability, ensuring this edition will endure. The Brioni typeface, known for its readability and elegance, is used throughout, and the scalpel bookmark is fashioned from embossed metallic paper.
Secure and Swift Delivery
Reflecting the care put into creating these books, shipping is handled by DHL Express, ensuring each volume is tracked and delivered promptly and safely, typically within 5-10 business days, depending on the order time and destination. While books are often exempt from customs fees, buyers should be aware of potential import duties or taxes in their respective countries, as these are the responsibility of the importer.
A Collector’s Treasure
The Doctor Edition of Frankenstein is more than just a book; it is a meticulously designed and crafted artifact that embodies the spirit of the novel and the ambition of Frankenstein’s doctor. Its limited run and unique features make it a true rarity and a prized possession for collectors and admirers of literary and artistic excellence. Explore more images of this exceptional edition and its illustrations in our gallery.
