Madness it was. Sophie Schneideman opened Sophie Schneideman Rare Books in 2007. It started in her attic with two simple Ikea bookshelves. She had no money no books and no customers. Yet Sophie Schneideman Rare Books was born. This wasn’t just any bookstore. Sophie Schneideman’s shop was a testament to her passion. It was a love letter to the art of the book.
Sophie Schneideman had worked at Maggs Bros for seventeen years. She learned the trade. She discovered her love for private press books and fine printing. She learned to see books not just as texts but as fascinating objects. Each book held secrets waiting to be uncovered. She felt at home surrounded by the smell of old paper and ink.
Sophie Schneideman had a knack for finding treasures. She wasn’t afraid of risk. She thrived on it. She had an instinct for acquiring books that spoke to her. She built her collection with these books. Her shop on Portobello Road became a haven for collectors.
After a few years in the attic Sophie Schneideman and her photographer husband moved. They opened a combined gallery and shop in London’s Portobello Road. This was in 2008 during the financial crash. Despite the economic turmoil they flourished. They hosted many exhibitions. These featured works by notable figures like Eric Gill and Reynolds Stone.
They later moved to a space opposite Kensal Green Cemetery. This cemetery is the resting place of many famous figures in the book world. The shop is open by appointment. Visitors can explore the treasures within. Sophie Schneideman continues to run her unique bookstore. She still deals in aesthetic books. These are objects of beauty. They excite her intellectually and emotionally.
Her shop is more than a business. It’s a reflection of her passion. It’s a place where history literature and art intertwine. Sophie Schneideman’s legacy continues to grow. It’s a legacy built on passion risk and a deep love for books. Visit Sophie Schneideman Rare Books and discover the magic for yourself. The treasures await.