The libraries that history forgot to lose.
A private house dedicated to rare manuscripts, illuminated codices and singular first editions — presented as the museum-grade objects they are.
Four works currently held in private viewing.
A dossier of forty volumes, hand-selected over three years.
Our curators travelled to eleven estates across Europe to assemble this season's catalogue — each book accompanied by its conservation report and a full provenance file.
EXPLORE THE COLLECTIONSix chapters of the Maison's archive.
A century of quiet stewardship.
"A book of this stature is not owned. It is held in trust between two chapters of history."
Lady Helena Carstairs
For three decades, Lady Carstairs has shaped the Maison's voice — travelling between Geneva, London and New York to authenticate works that other houses overlook. Her annual letter remains required reading among private collectors.
READ HER ANNUAL LETTERHeld in confidence by the world's most discreet collectors.
"The Maison located a volume my family had pursued for forty years. The conservation file alone was worth the journey."
"An unfailing standard of provenance. I trust them with works I would not entrust to any auction house."
"Their viewings are arranged with the discretion of a tailoring atelier — and the scholarship of a university press."
Searching for a particular volume?
Our acquisitions desk locates works held in private collections worldwide. Most requests are answered within seventy-two hours.
OPEN A PRIVATE INQUIRYThe Maison Circular.
Four letters a year. New acquisitions, conservation notes and invitations to private viewings — sent only to subscribers.