Brass printing block from Leighton - Two ornamental Blocks

London: c. 1840s-1880s Two brass printing blocks: one ornamental vertical scroll, and one L-shaped corner piece featuring leaves. Vertical scroll very good with light rubbing, corner piece fair with indentation to lower portion. John Leighton (1822-1912) was one of the most prolific designers of the Victorian Era, having worked also as an illustrator and author. Over 400 bookbinding designs have been attributed to him, spanning the years 1845-1902. Many were made for the London bindery J. & J. Leighton, founded by his father and uncle, John and James Leighton, active c. 1830s-1918. Many of his design elements incorporated coats of arms, inspired by his extensive knowledge of heraldry. One of the blocks from this group bears the stamp of T. Staples. Thomas Staples was a block maker and die-sinker who supplied brass and electrotype blocks to English binderies.. Very Good.