Heath Collection
The Heath collection includes nearly 450 titles illustrative of British engraving from the 17th- to the 19th-centuries.
In particular they reflect the work of engravers James Heath and Charles Heath. Charles Heath was particularly associated with gift-books and annuals and these are well represented in the collection.
About the collection
The collector
The collection was amassed by John Heath. Whilst at university, Heath was given Heath's Book of Beauties published in 1813 which sparked a lifelong journey to collect as many James and Charles Heath engravings as possible. As well as their engravings, John Heath also collected books with fine bindings.
Acquisition
John Heath died in 2009 and in his will left his collection to the University of York.
Related collections
- George Smith collection
Further information
- Heath, John, The Heath family engravers 1779-1878 Aldershot, Scolar Press, 1993 3 volumes
- John Heath's Library, a catalogue of illustrated books and prints engraved by the Heath family 1779-1878, 2nd edition, 2004
- Article on Heath's book collecting activity
- Biography of James Heath