Two Medico-Philosophical Discourses: On Fermentation

A vertical photograph shows the front edge of the pages, known as the fore-edge, of a thick and antique book. The pages appear as a dense, dark brown block. They show significant aging and discoloration. The edges of the front and back covers are visible on either side. These covers consist of worn, cracked, dark brown leather or parchment. There is clear evidence of decay and loss of material along the edges. The entire object rests against a dark, nearly black background.

fore-edge the edge of a book's leaves opposite the spine
bookbinding the physical assembly of a book and its protective cover
antique manuscript an old document, in this case a printed book, showing historical wear
leather binding the use of animal hide to cover and protect the book block
page edges the outer surfaces of the paper sheets when the book is closed