Objects of Substance- Libellum Motif

Vera Cottew’s signature in her copy of “The Grammar of Ornament” gifted to the School.

Of the Cottew bequests, the most magnificent is her book, The Grammar of Ornament. Quite serendipitously, this incredible text was recently found in the Beanland Library collection not having been borrowed for many years. Inside the front cover we were delighted to discover Vera Cottew’s signature. The first students to enjoy this rediscovery were members of the Libellum Society whose club logo is a direct representation of Cottew’s dynamic contribution to the Creative Arts at Girls Grammar. The book is now valued at $1200 but its historical value is far greater. It has been almost 100 years since Vera Cottew began educating Grammar girls and instilling in them a deep appreciation of the relationship between nature and artistic expression. Such a rich history has been revealed in the layers of the student designs, the imagination of a dedicated teacher, and the wonderful book that she left behind.

2023 Libellum Society captain, Charlotte Wilson (9G) holds Vera Cottew’s bequest, The Grammar of Ornament.

Rachael Christopherson Director of Library and Information Services