Frederick C. Kranz

Frederick C. Kranz was trained by a traditional German bookbinder in Hamburg, began working in the Roycroft bindery in 1903, and, when leather modeling was introduced in the bindery, was designated “Master Leather Modeler.” The Roycrofters compared their leather modeling to the creation of bas-relief sculpture. Kranz remained at Roycroft until 1915.

The Lawson bookbindings of The Complete Writings of Elbert Hubbard reveal Kranz’s skills as bookbinder and leather modeler. In design, they resemble the Art Nouveau style more than the Arts and Crafts style for which the Roycrofters were known. Art Nouveau is an international design style that was inspired by natural forms and structures, particularly the curved lines of plants and flowers. The Arts and Crafts movement had incorporated traditional styles and simple, angular forms. The use of the newer Art Nouveau style would have pleased Elbert Hubbard, who encouraged his artisans to stay abreast of current European design trends. The Lawson covers are embellished with figures such as Athena, Greek Goddess of wisdom and war. Kranz’s work was usually unsigned; his gold monogram on these covers may indicate pride in the exquisite workmanship.