Delicate repetition and astonishing detail help to create this silvered meditation on the nature of beauty. The word "filigree" derives from the Latin words filum (thread) and granum (seed). The filigree bindings are enhanced with foliage-ornaments and clasps.This Silver Filigree cover was originally designed in Germany in the early 1800s. To achieve the gilded and polished motif, a base layer of silver sheets was first die cut, and elaborate grooves were then meticulously etched into its surface.The art of filigree is a moving testament to the human drive to ornament in order to delight the eye and focus the spirit and attention. One can imagine this book holding ancient matters of great importance as easily as one can see it placed with pride on a well-appointed contemporary desk.