Dating to the early 20th century, this pair of large sample books is believed to be the only surviving set in the world.
Two exceptional and seemingly unique vintage Whatman handmade paper sample books produced by W&R Balston Ltd. (c. 1915–1925, dated by watermarks up to approximately 1914). These are large folio volumes (15 x 10 inches / 380 x 255 mm) that serve as practical promotional/specimen books from the historic Springfield Mill era, showcasing Whatman's renowned handmade rag papers in the later phase of their handmade production.The pair consists of:
- Ledger & Writing Papers (maroon cover): 108 intact samples, featuring labeled swatches of extra-thick laid/cream papers in imperial sizes (e.g., Small Post variants, weights in lbs per ream), with visible chain lines and deckle edges.
- Drawing Papers (green cover): 40 intact samples, focused on extra-weight/heavier stocks suitable for drawing/technical work, with marbled endpapers and fanned heavy sheets.
Both books are fully complete (no missing samples), unmarked internally (no inscriptions, annotations, or marks of any kind), and in excellent preserved condition (minor age-related cover wear only; clean interiors).
They document Whatman's commercial output for professional users (stationers, artists, bookbinders) during the early 20th century—bridging papermaking history, the material culture of design/printing, and the physical aspects of book arts/ephemera.
Famous Artworks and Illustrations on Whatman PaperWhatman paper became a staple for watercolorists and printmakers due to its wove texture (smooth, without laid lines), gelatin sizing for durability, and ability to handle subtractive techniques (scratching, sponging, washing).
- John James Audubon's The Birds of America (Havell edition, 1827–1838): Printed on double-elephant folio Whatman wove paper (watermarked "J Whatman" or "J Whatman/Turkey Mill" with dates 1826–1839). This massive work (life-size bird illustrations) required the largest and highest-quality handmade sheets available. Audubon also used Whatman for some of his original paintings.
- J.M.W. Turner (numerous works): Regularly worked on Whatman paper for watercolors and sketches, valuing its robustness for his experimental, expressive techniques (e.g., scraping, sponging). Examples include sketches like Sketch of Mackerel (1830–1840, watercolor over graphite on Whatman Turkey Mill paper) and many landscapes/studies in his oeuvre.
- Thomas Gainsborough: Sought Whatman wove paper as early as the 1760s for his watercolours and wash drawings, before it was widely available. He wrote enthusiastically to booksellers about obtaining it for its ideal surface.
- William Blake: Used Whatman for four of his illuminated books (printed on "the most beautiful wove paper that could be procured"), prized for its smoothness in his relief-etched printing and hand-coloring.
- Paul Sandby: Painted A View of Vinters at Boxley, Kent, with Mr. Whatman’s Turkey Paper Mills (1794, opaque and transparent watercolor on Whatman wove paper) — a key work in exhibitions linking papermaking to watercolor art.
- Other notable artists: John Robert Cozens, John Sell Cotman, Cornelius Varley (watercolors/drawings); Edward Arthur Hughes (The Valkyrie's Vigil, 1906, watercolor and gold paint on Whatman paper).
Important Letters, Documents, and Other UsesWhatman paper was chosen for its prestige and durability in official and personal correspondence.
- Napoleon Bonaparte: Wrote his will on Whatman paper.
- George Washington: Signed many state documents on Whatman paper.
- Queen Victoria: Used Whatman for her personal correspondence.
- Other historical notes: Benjamin Franklin introduced Whatman wove paper (from Baskerville editions) to France after being impressed by its quality. It also appeared in early photography experiments (e.g., calotypes by William Henry Fox Talbot) and various official/printed documents.
Whatman paper's legacy spans art (especially British watercolor and printing) to high-status documents, making it a symbol of quality from the 18th to early 20th centuries. If you're interested in specific works or more details on any of these, let me know!
