Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

In 1950 the Japanese created the title of Ningen Kokuhō or Living National Treasure for select artists who are both masters of their craft and keepers of an important aspect of their culture. As a local wood engraver and fine press printer,  Gaylord Schanilec is such a living treasure.

The Minnesota Historical Society Library recently purchased the deluxe edition (one of 26 copies) of Schanilec’s latest work -  the complicated, beautiful and unusual book Sylvæ. The book combines Schanilec’s artistic and printing prowess with Ben Verhoeven’s research and printing help to document twenty four varieties of trees on Schanilec’s 20 acres near Stockholm, Wisconsin. The book was acquired with the generous support of C. A. Weyerhaeuser Funds. The book, along with a selection of wood prints, plates, and tools used to create it, are all on display in the Library Lobby now through the end of July.