Philip Salmon & Company Rare Books has opened its doors in Boston's Copley Square, occupying the cherished second-floor space formerly home to the legendary Bromer Booksellers. Co-owner Phil Salmon describes the venture as a thoughtful continuation of a prestigious bookselling legacy, blending traditional expertise with innovative approaches to book collecting.
The new shop's inaugural catalog, "The Interaction of Paper," showcases an impressive collection spanning three centuries of paper engineering and book arts. The curated selection includes pop-up books, interactive works, and artist books, with items ranging from $50 to several thousand dollars.
Unlike most contemporary rare book dealers who operate exclusively online, Philip Salmon & Company maintains a physical storefront, offering collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to personally examine rare volumes. Salmon emphasizes the irreplaceable experience of physically interacting with books before purchase.
The shop's collection extends beyond children's illustrated books, encompassing literary first editions, manuscripts, fine printing, works by Edward Gorey, and miniature books. Notably, Salmon aims to expand the shop's focus to include materials exploring social justice issues, signaling a progressive approach to rare book curation.
Operating Monday through Friday with weekend appointments, the shop provides comprehensive services including appraisals, cataloging, and collection development guidance. This new establishment represents a significant moment for book collectors and cultural preservationists, ensuring the continued vitality of rare book traditions in an increasingly digital marketplace.
