Concerning the Work by Michael Cope

This book is a remarkable publication from Michael Cope, a Cape Town author, artist and jeweller. Michael plans to bequeath the contents of his workshop to a young South African jeweller, chosen through a competition. Concerning the Work is Michael's letter to his successor. It is an evocative memoir of Michael's time in the 'the trade', and a lyrical hymn to a craftsperson's relationship with his tools.

We are proud to have been invited to create a fine press limited edition to unite the crafts of jewellery making, typecasting, letterpress printing and bookbinding.

A close-up view of a printed page with the word 'ADVICE' visible through a magnifying glass, focusing on a snippet of text.
Close-up photo of a metal type.

The book is printed letterpress by Thin Ice Press: the York Centre for Print in 2025 using newly cast Monotype Joanna by Nick Gill at Effra Press & Type Foundry, York. All photographs and drawings are by the author, unless otherwise specified, and printed digitally by Bob Scrase at Fulprint, York. Bound by the printers, with the assistance of Roger Grech, Shipley.

Concerning the Work is being published in an edition of 150 copies, priced at £195, with a maximum of five special edition bindings available at £495. Coming autumn 2025.