A Conversation with NYIABF Ambassador Levi Higgs

Levi Higgs is Head of Archives & Brand Heritage at David Webb, a role he has held since 2013. He holds an MA in the History of Decorative Arts and Design from Parsons, The New School, in collaboration with the Cooper Hewitt, National Design Museum. A jewelry and decorative arts historian, Levi brings a deeply informed and endlessly curious eye to the material culture he studies.

Levi is returning as an Ambassador for the 66th Annual ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair, joining a dynamic group of passionate collectors, influencers, and industry leaders who are shaping the conversation around collecting, preservation, and the cultural importance of historical materials. Ahead of the fair, we had the opportunity to ask him a few questions.

Collection & Inspiration

What do you collect? What is the most remarkable or unusual item in your collection, and how did it come into your hands?

I have a 19th-century print of Castellani jewelry, and it was given to me by a friend and member of Gem X, a jewelry social club I’m a member of, as Secret Santa gift. She nailed it.

If you could own any antiquarian book, manuscript or artifact in the world, what would it be, and why?

I really crave something from the Kelmscott Press…those William Morris illustrations and letters are so gorgeous and intricate.

Which past or present figure in the literary world do you most admire?

Beatrix Potter. The exhibition at the Morgan Library really made me admire her work to build her literary empire as well as preserve the Lake District.

Is there a historic library, archive or reading room anywhere in the world that has left a lasting impression on you?

The Rijksmuseum Library is always a must-visit for me, such a magical interior.

Lifestyle

What first sparked your love for rare books and literary history?

The movies The Pagemaster and The NeverEnding Story.

Which books or manuscripts are you currently researching or working with?

Always a jewelry tome. Right now, lots of 1970s jewelry references.

What non-book object, artwork, or place currently fuels your curiosity?

Victorian revival style brooches!

Advice

What’s the first step you’d recommend to someone starting an antiquarian collection?

I always say to start by collecting what interests you. It seems obvious but that small point stumps a lot of people, and always stretch the budget or you’ll regret the near-miss later.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned about collecting?

Take the necessary steps for perfect preservation at home once you’re responsible for the work.

What’s your best tip for spotting something truly special among the ordinary?

Find your niche section at the rare book shop and always haunt it. No one knows better about jewelry books than me when a new item is shelved!

Plugs

What recent acquisition, exhibition or research project makes you most proud?

My catalogue I wrote for an exhibition at David Webb in 2022, A Walk in the Woods.

Do you have any projects coming down the pipeline that you can share with us? We'd love to share what you're working on with our followers!

Stay tuned for lots of historical greatness coming up at David Webb!

What’s one of the most challenging finds you’ve successfully tracked down?

A book on Calder jewelry with amazing photography.

What are you most looking forward to exploring or sharing at the next New York Antiquarian Book Fair?

Hopefully some lovely jewelry-related ephemera.