Sources

Volume 1, Volume 2

Earliest major book printed in Europe using mass-produced metal movable type.

31-Line, 30-Line (additional scans at the British Library)

The Mainz Indulgences were issued to raise revenue to support the Western European struggle against the Turks and stem from Pope Nicolas V's announcement that a general Indulgence would be granted for those contributing money towards the defence of Cyprus. They are the earliest known European documents with a fixed date printed by movable metal type.

The second major book printed with movable type in the West.

A medieval treatise that explains the symbolic meanings and theological significance of every aspect of the Catholic liturgy, church architecture, and sacred vestments. Also an example of the use of a rounder gothic type known as lettre de somme.

The second printed edition of the Bible and the first book printed in Strasbourg. Additional scan at Princton University Library.

A 13th-century Latin dictionary and one of the first books to be printed, using the new printing technology of Johannes Gutenberg. Additional scans available at Library of Congress.

Various scans available. The second moveable-type-printed edition of the Bible.

A medieval treatise that explains the symbolic meanings and theological significance of every aspect of the Catholic liturgy, church architecture, and sacred vestments.

Considered the first book printed in Italy.

The first full attempt to defend Christian theology in Latin.

Considered the first dated book printed in Italy. It also contained the first printing in Greek by any printer.

The earliest printed book advertisement.

A book of Christian philosophy and possibly the earliest printed book for which the printer’s manuscript remains extant.

Based on a popular Latin grammar book of the Middle Ages.

Thought to be the first Italian book illustrated with a series of woodcut images.

Considered the first book printed in Italy.

The first full attempt to defend Christian theology in Latin.

Middle English poem which offers a moral and spiritual commentary on human life.

Medieval illustrated text that presents a typology of the Old Testament foreshadowing events in the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, offering a moral and theological guide to salvation.

Julius Caesar’s first-hand account of the Gallic Wars, written as a third-person narrative.

Aims to comprehensively document all known aspects of the natural world, including cosmology, geography, zoology, botany, medicine, and arts, drawing heavily on earlier sources and personal observations.

A book of Christian philosophy and possibly the earliest printed book for which the printer’s manuscript remains extant.

The first book to be printed in Nicolas Jenson&rsqu;s type.

Designed to teach prose composition and the first book printed in France. (One image only)

A collection of 148 ancient Greek letters, all but one attributed to Phalaris, the Greek tyrant of Akragas in the 6th century BC.

A versified Latin grammar book originally composed around 1200. It appeared in many editions in Italy, Germany and France and was based on the older works of Donatus and Priscian.

An early edition of Quintilian’s comprehensive twelve-book treatise on the theory and practice of rhetoric. Compare to Jenson, no other man produced quite so fine a font, or had better taste in the composition of a page and its imposition upon paper.

Single-sheet calendar, notable for being one of the first annual calendars produced and for its inclusion of woodcut illustrations.

A theological work by Paul of Burgos, which aimed to reconcile Christian doctrine with Jewish scripture by examining prophecies concerning the Messiah.

Executed in a heavy, roughly cast gothic type.

Handbook for parish priests, offering comprehensive guidance on pastoral theology, including sacraments and the duties of curates.

Thought to be the first Italian book illustrated with a series of woodcut images.

One part titled The Mirror of History of the Speculum Maius. Only one leaf avaialble.

Religious text that focuses on Christian salvation history, particularly through the lens of typology, by juxtaposing events from the Old Testament with those from the New Testament, especially highlighting the role of the Virgin Mary.

Large-format illuminated manuscript on parchment that visually depicts the genealogical relationships of noble families.

A short treatise on genealogy.

A collection of canon law compiled around 1140.

One of the earliest titles published in English, it is allegory of fixed social structures where each rank has its allotted role.

A German work that explores and contrasts the traditional seven deadly sins with their corresponding virtues.

A Latin dictionary compiled by Johannes Grammaticus and holds the distinction of being the first dated book printed in Spain.

English translation of a French courtly romance, which chronicles the genealogy of the ancient Greek gods and the legend of the Trojan War, notably becoming the first book printed in English.

The first printed Bible in the Catalan language. Single page only.

First French book printed in Paris.

A guide to virtuous living, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of various professions and social classes in medieval society.

A priest’s manual of variations in the office during the ecclesiastical year

One of the first books printed in England.

The first book advertisement in the English language. This poster advertises Caxton’s edition of the Sarum Ordinal or Pye, the priest’s manual of variations in the Office during the ecclesiastical year.

A philosophical commentary on Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, exploring his ethical principles through a theological lens.

The first illustrated book in France. A French translation of the Latin Speculum Humanae Salvationis, is a highly influential and widely disseminated illustrated work from the late Middle Ages that explores Christian theology, particularly the Passion of Christ and human sin, through comparisons between Old and New Testament events.

Handbook for parish priests, offering comprehensive guidance on pastoral theology, including sacraments and the duties of curates.

The first book printed at the St Alban’s Press, which was the third printing press established in England, and it served as a standard Latin textbook for grammar school and university students of the period.

Thought to be the first Italian book illustrated with a series of woodcut images.

Four-volume work on Catholic moral theology that also provides significant insight into 15th-century society, customs, and economic life.

A one-page prospectus in Latin to promote the Nuremberg Chronicle soon after its completion.

Manual for priests which instructed them on what feasts they should celebrate when. Video of single page.

A commentary on Aristotle’s Metaphysics, which, following the doctrines of John Duns Scotus, systematically explores and reformulates Scotist metaphysics, especially concerning the concept and scientific status of metaphysics itself.

An English translation of a French version of William of Tyre’s Latin chronicle, detailing the life and crusading efforts of Godfrey of Bouillon, a key leader in the First Crusade and the first ruler of Jerusalem.

A liturgical book designed for the celebration of Mass. Its contents were meticulously organized to guide priests through the entire ecclesiastical year.

Missal for the Parisian diocese, often featuring woodcut illustrations and adhering closely to the design of traditional French manuscript missals to promote uniform liturgical practices.

Published by Lienhart Holle Ulm (Germany), Lamberto Palmart (Spain)

A treatise on cartography, compiling the geographical knowledge of the 2nd-century Roman Empire.

The first printed English legal treatise, offering a foundational and comprehensive exposition of English land law as it stood at the time, particularly concerning tenures and estates.

A collection of correspondence from Pope Pius II.

The ninth German-language version of the Bible to have been printed and the second to have been produced in Nuremberg.

Am alchemical and medical text which discusses the production of “aqua vitae” and the applications of the “quintessence” for both health and the transmutation of metals.

Based on a popular Latin grammar book of the Middle Ages.

First edition of Ovid’s Metamorphoses, illustrated with woodcuts, rearranged and partly rewritten by Mansion himself.

A devotional text that recounts visions or miraculous events associated with Saint Nicholas.

A philosophical dialogue, which explores themes of fortune, evil, and the nature of happiness through a conversation between Boethius and Lady Philosophy.

A grammar textbook that served as an important educational tool for teaching the fundamentals of Latin.

Important late medieval work concerning the knowledge of natural history, especially that of medicinal plants.

One of the first printed herbals in German.

Encyclopedia that systematically describes the properties of all things in the known world, encompassing theology, natural science, and daily life.

Ascetic treatise that uses the metaphor of a mirror to reflect upon the significance of the cross and the sinfulness of humanity.

LIkely the earliest known type specimen.

A pastoral manual that served as a popular guide for clerics, drawing on various theological and devotional authors to outline Christian doctrine and provide instruction for a moral life.

Containing the prayers, chants, and instructions for celebrating Mass.

Homer's complete works, comprising the Iliad and Odyssey

A Latin prayer book used for Mass, specifically for the diocese of Olomouc (now in the Czech Republic).

Volume 1, Volume 2

An adaptation of Usuard’s Rudimentum novitiorum.

An English translation of a French text providing moral and religious guidance for lay Christians.

Likely issued for Johannes de Gigliis, was a printed document offering remission of sins in exchange for contributions, possibly to a specific cause or for the benefit of the Church.

A collection of satirical poems by written between 100–127 A.D.

Catalan chivalric romance that stands out for its realism, humor, and psychological depth, significantly influencing the development of the modern novel and charting the adventures of its titular knight from England to the Byzantine Empire.

Also known as The Saxon Chronicle, it is a richly illustrated Middle Low German world chronicle that focuses heavily on Saxon history.

A medieval Latin poem that was popular as a school text during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

A letter on the Battle of Granada.

Among the most lavishly ornate, and probably the most costly, medieval missals in the world.

One of the earliest instances of this work being reproduced by a printer other than Caxton and using a transitional lettre de forme.

A 15th-century commentary and exposition on the Ten Commandments written in dialogue form.

A revised and expanded version of his foundational Latin grammar, essential for standardizing Castilian and reforming Latin instruction.

A collection of Middle English homilies, originally compiled by John Mirk, providing sermons for the various festivals of the liturgical year.

A popular collection of hagiographies, or lives of the saints, widely read in the Late Middle Ages.

A universal history compiled from older and contemporary sources, it is one of the most densely illustrated and technically advanced works of early printing.

An English prose text primarily based on the 13th-century Ancrene Wisse, offering religious and spiritual guidance.

Published by Rosenbach (1493) Fadrique de Basilea (1496)

Tells the tragic story of Leriano, a knight who suffers from unrequited love for the princess Laureola, ultimately dying of lovesickness after her repeated rejections and an ordeal where her honor is unjustly questioned.

A Low German translation of the Bible, notable for its incorporation of glosses and its elaborate woodcut illustrations.

Offering guidance on the education and governance of princes.

A devotional text, based on Ludolph of Saxony’s Vita Christi, that guides readers through meditations on the life of Jesus, encouraging imaginative and emotional engagement with the events of the Gospels.

First edition of Lydgate’s English translation of Boccaccio’s De Casibus Virorum Illustrium, which recounts the tragic downfalls of various historical and legendary figures to illustrate the mutable nature of fortune. Only low-quality microfilm scan available.

Pietro’s first Latin work was also the first Latin literary text published by Aldus.

A devotional text that guides the reader through meditating on the mysteries of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, often through the eyes of the Virgin Mary, while praying the Rosary.

A medical treatise that summarizes medieval medical knowledge and was influential in the Iberian Peninsula and has a magnificent title-page which is distinctly Spanish in effect.

Valencia edition

Alternate scans at Biblioteca Digital Hispánica.

Compiles the laws of the Kingdom of Aragon, encompassing legal provisions from the Compilation of Huesca up to the Cortes of Tarazona in 1495.

Additional scans: Internet Archive, Biblioteca Digital Hispánica

Compiles and codifies the royal ordinances concerning a sales tax and various exemptions in the Kingdom of Castile.

For the first time, all the rules of chess appeared unified.

A compilation of matters relating to the interests of the time of a gentleman. 1909 facsimile with introduction by William Blades.

Extols the virtues and glories of Spain, promoting its history, geography, and culture to a wider European audience.

A liturgical book, created during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs in Spain, reflecting the widespread ecclesiastical reforms and the intertwined relationship between royal power and the Church at that time.

A printed book of hours, or primer, following the “Use of Sarum,” which provided a standardized set of daily prayers, psalms, and devotions for personal piety, widely used by the laity in late 15th-century England.

Liturgical book for the Mass, printed for the English market, which followed the widespread “Use of Sarum” (the form of service used in Salisbury and surrounding dioceses) and included elaborate ceremonials and often printed music.

A devotional work in praise of Saint Christopher, featuring decorated initials and woodcuts.

The first chronicle of the Kingdom of Aragon to be published in the vernacular, covering its history from the mythical kings of Sobrarbe up to the death of Alfonso V.

Vernacular history of Aragon, chronicling events from its mythical origins up to the death of King Alfonso V.

A Latin grammar textbook intended for pedagogical use, likely aimed at students learning the fundamentals of Latin in late fifteenth century England.

A collection of didactic and moralistic texts aimed at providing instruction and ethical guidance.

Refined woodcut illustrations in an Early Renaissance style. It presents a mysterious arcane allegory in which the main protagonist, Poliphilo, pursues his love, Polia, through a dreamlike landscape. In the end, he is reconciled with her by the “Fountain of Venus.”

Printed in Toledo

A liturgical book containing prayers and devotions for the Catholic Church.

An allegory about a ship with a dysfunctional crew intended to represent the problems of governance prevailing in a political system not based on expert knowledge.

A Spanish translation of the influential Latin confessional manual Confessionale: Defecerunt by Saint Antoninus of Florence, which guided confessors on how to administer the sacrament of penance.

A Courts of Devotion print that exemplifies the characteristic and well-executed Dutch “lettre de forme” typefaces of the period.

Printed in Toledo

Containing the prayers, chants, and instructions for celebrating Mass. (Select images only)

Addresses common orthographical errors in Latin and provides guidance on correct writing.

Latin grammar textbook that was widely influential and saw numerous editions throughout the late 15th century and beyond, serving as a foundational text for Latin education.

The first book printed in the Aldine italic.

The first vernacular text printed entirely in the new italic type.

Primarily contains The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, a biography of a 1st-century Neopythagorean philosopher, alongside Eusebius’s refutation of Hierocles, who had attempted to draw parallels between Apollonius and Christ.

A Parisian book of hours.

A French courtly romance written by Raoul Lefèvre and was the first book printed in the English language.

Spanish translation of the Latin work, which is a guide to spiritual ascent. Printed by order of Cardinal Ximenez.

A 13th-century encyclopedia that systematically describes and categorizes the natural world, human body, and various sciences (including theology, astrology, and medicine) as understood in the Middle Ages.

Famously illustrated by Leonardo da Vinci, explores mathematical proportions, especially the golden ratio, and their applications in geometry, art (particularly perspective), and architecture.

With commentary by R. Regi, published at Milan.

A devotional psalter dedicated to the Virgin Mary and a splendid example of the manière criblée. The text is printed in lettre batarde in red and black.

Presents five parallel Latin versions of the Psalms with commentary.

A legal document outlining the renewed or reformed statutes and ordinances of the city of Frankfurt am Main.

A sermon on the renewal of the Church and appears to have contained the earliest roman letter used in England. Only one page available.

Executed in a very Italian letter, in red and black, with music, and with a representation of the Crucifixion opposite the Canon, which is surrounded by elaborate borders. It is a book typical in style of the fifteenth century.

A Latin prayer book, notable for its early use of Fraktur typeface.

The first printed polyglot of the entire Bible with the Old Testament in Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, and Latin, and the New Testament in Greek and Latin.

A missal containing the texts and rubrics for the celebration of Mass according to the rites of the Diocese of Cologne.

A legal text for the Kingdom of Valencia, compiling its royal privileges and laws, and including a history of James I, its conqueror.

A collection of about Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, the printing of which is considered of less quality than others of the same period.

Tory’s most famous work is printed in a light Roman typeface and contained sixteen full-page borders and thirteen large woodcuts. This version is the most famous to this day for breaking all the traditions of the time.

An early printed work that delves into the nature of angels. The folios are set in enormous capitals which much disfigure the page.

An historical chronicle detailing the reign of King Juan II of Castile. Haebler calls it a masterpiece of typography.

Details the history of Holland, Zeeland, and Friesland 1517. The use of heavy lettre de forme is of fine execution.

Only select scans available.

A fourteenth-century verse narrative and the printing of which is considered of less quality than others of the same period.

A compilation of arguments and summaries related to Roman law. Roman type of this period is finely displayed on its title page.

An allegorical epic poem, commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I and largely written by Melchior Pfintzing, that recounts a fictionalized and romanticized version of Maximilian’s journey to marry Mary of Burgundy.

Later reprinted in 1519 in Augsburg.

Fonts of heavier roman were used in a polemical work that refutes Josse Clichtove’s arguments against the belief in a single Mary Magdalene.

Multi-volume oration on the peace concluded and the treaty struck between the kings of England and France. They are the first English books printed entirely in roman.

Latin edition of of Flavius Josephus’ ancient historical work.

Intended for students to practice translating English into Latin and printed in two sizes of roman type.

Defends the study and utility of pagan classical literature and learning, arguing against those who deemed it “barbaric” and irrelevant to Christian piety.

Fonts of heavier roman were used in the formal condemnation of errors attributed to Martin Luther’s teachings.

A theological treatise that forcefully defends the unity and authority of the Catholic Church against the burgeoning criticisms and divisions emerging from the Reformation.

An early Spanish translation of Livy’s “History of Rome.” Is magnificent and contains one of the first examples of “colour printing,” as we now understand it.

Editions: 1520, 1529

A legal treatise on customary law and the printing of which is considered of less quality than others of the same period.

A Latin translation of the New Testament printed in italic.

A liturgical book detailing the divine office for the Canons Regular of the Windesheim Congregation with better roman types used by Paffraet at Deventer.

An introductory astronomy textbook in European universities that described the spherical nature of the universe, the elements and celestial spheres, the circles of the heavens and Earth, and basic planetary motion and eclipses.

A differentiation between u and v also appeared this book but the printer Vicentino Arrighi did not distinguish between i and j.

The first writing manual for the chancery hand.

An oration, which was the first book printed in England to include Hebrew and Arabic type.

An edition of ancient ecclesiastical rules which made them accessible during the early Reformation period. The types are finer than most contemporary roman fonts.

A printed grammar textbook designed to introduce readers to the fundamentals of Latin. The text in roman, surrounded with notes set in a nervous and beautifully cut Spanish gothic type—is also of interest, both for its arrangement—very romantic for a grammar—and its fine fonts.

Facsimile of the lyrics to the battaglia by Matthias Werrecore in memory of the Battle of Pavia.

A Roman comedy adapted by Terence and was the first play by Terence to be presented publicly. It was printed with better roman types used by Paffraet at Deventer.

Facsimile issued by K. Burger.

A textbook on practical geometry for artists.

A four-part treatise on astronomical instruments.

An historical account of the military exploits and virtues of Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, known as the “Gran Capitán,” during the Italian Wars and the conquest of Granada. A fine book much the same gothic type is used as in books published prior—a little rounder, perhaps—not so well printed or so finely imposed.

A mathematical and astronomical work that describes the structure of the cosmos.

1729 reprint

A collection of short stories structured as a frame story containing 100 tales told by a group of seven young women and three young men; they shelter in a secluded villa just outside Florence in order to escape the Black Death. It very closely imitates the Aldine style.

A lexicon of civil law written with italics.

An expanded edition of Desiderius Erasmus’s collection of Greek and Latin adages, proverbs, and apothegms, accompanied by his extensive commentaries on their meanings and applications.

The square, heavy lettre de forme is exemplified in this edition of the old and new Testaments.

One of the important books in the history of letter design, it is a treatise on the art and science of properly proportioning letters and also advocating for a reform of the French language by establishing rules for spelling and typography.

Example of Dutch printing of the first order. The black-letter is very impressive and beautiful, though of a massive kind that betokens Dutch provenance. Only one page available.

A Latin translation of Julius Caesar’s first-hand account of the Gallic Wars.

The first complete French translation of Caesar’s works.

A blackletter edition of John Gower’s 14th-century Middle English poem.

The first of seven volumes in a collection featuring polyphonic Masses for four voices by various composers.

First collected edition of two major manifestos of European humanism.

The first English Bible.

A significant humanist treatise that explores the relationship between classical Greek culture and Christian faith. The type is a suaver, more rounded font, better aligned and better set than previous books by the same author.

An elegantly written early French handbook on botany. Considered one of the finest of sixteenth century French books.

Collection of works by Beothius.

Volumes 1 and 2, Volumes 3 and 4

A collection of Cicero’s works printed with a delicacy in its running head-lines of large lower-case roman which makes it French rather than Italian, though the type is almost an Italian fifteenth century character.

An edition of Erasmus’s letter on “contempt for the world,” a philosophical and spiritual theme advocating detachment from earthly desires in favor of spiritual pursuits. The title-page is set in capital and lower-case letters.

A bucolic poem by with scholarly notes by Alardus Amstelredamus written using italics.

A bilingual Christian doctrine notable for being among the very first books printed in the Americas.

A collection of poetic letters that delve into philosophical and ethical reflections written in italic type.

A collection of lyric poems from the golden age of Latin literature written in italic type.

The first authorized English translation of the Bible for public use in England, authorized by King Henry VIII. Only select pictures available.

A botanical work and herbal notable for its hundreds of highly accurate and detailed woodcut illustrations of plants, many based on direct observation and depicting species newly introduced to Europe, which significantly advanced the scientific study of botany.

Second edition of Chaucer’s collected works set in black-letter, but entirely of the English variety.

A Greek primer that features the first use of the gros-romain font, part of the grecs du roi typefaces cut by Claude Garamond.

A Latin translation and distinct advance over previous editions of Julius Caesar’s first-hand account of the Gallic Wars.

Anatomical treatise that revolutionized the study of human anatomy through meticulous dissections, detailed observations, and stunning woodcut illustrations that corrected centuries of errors based on ancient authorities.

Issued in nine volumes and made use of the fine italic which was cut in imitation of the Aldine character.

An historical work that delves into the origins and lineage of the first twelve ancient kings and princes of the German nation.

Edition of Dante’s Divine Comedy printed in two sizes of italic.

A collection of witty, often biting, and sometimes obscene short poems that vividly portray the daily life, social customs, and diverse characters of ancient Rome.

A “preparation” for understanding the Christian Gospel written in an early and elegant use of the grecs du roi typeface commissioned by King François I.

An illustrated anatomical text that features detailed woodcut images of human dissection, notable for its depiction of the entire external venous and nervous systems.

A revision and reaffirmation of hymns for liturgical use. Uses roman for both text and notes. Its title-page—though but a feeble copy of similar Basle books—and index will repay examination.

Latin translation of Pulgar’s Spanish chronicle of the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella that opens with a title-page ornamented with a border in four pieces—meant to be Renaissance—engraved on wood by some one very awkward with this graver and surrounding a brilliant armorial device.

The first French translation by Jean Martin of the allegorical romance Hypnerotomachia Poliphili.

The smallest of them (cicéro) is used in this edition also known as “O Mirificam.”

A French treatise on the construction and practical uses of the astrolabe printed in a charming italic, with wide-notes in roman, and full of attractively rendered illustrative drawings and diagrams.

Written to prove that there were twelve ecclesiastical modes identical with the ancient Greek modes in music.

A French adaptation of the Spanish chivalric romance that follows the heroic knight Amadís.

A collection of over 400 versified fables and stories, primarily based on Aesopic tradition.

Considered one of the finest writing-books ever printed.

The original version.

Chronicles the lives of twelve Viscontis, the rulers of Milan. A most beautiful book composed throughout in one size of roman, two sizes of italic, and initials from Geofroy Tory.

C. Wechel of Paris used i for the vowel and j for the consonant.

The largest size of Greek types (gros-parangon) was used in this edition also known as Editio Regia or the “Royal Edition.”

An account of European history from the end of the 15th century through the mid-16th century, focusing on political and military events.

A musical setting of the first English Book of Common Prayer.

A series of artist biographies which is considered the first important book on art history.

Second edition printed in 1568

The first printed collection of Appian of Alexandria’s various books on Roman history.

A Latin dialogue that explores various scientific and philosophical topics.

A reprint of the influential collection of fictional poetic letters written by mythological heroines to their absent lovers with two-line initial letters at the beginnings of new sections, and large capital pictorial initials, cut on wood, sometimes marking chief divisions.

A famous Italian herbal, with excellent woodcuts of plants.

Expanded version of the 1543 edition of an anatomical treatise that revolutionized the study of human anatomy.

Volume 2, Volume 4

A posthumously published work by the prominent French mathematician and cartographer, intended as a comprehensive treatise on various mathematical topics, including geometry, arithmetic, and astronomy, with a notable focus on the quadrature of the circle.

The first official list of passages to be deleted from books issued by the Roman Inquisition and later included in the Index Librorum Prohibitorum.

A richly illustrated Italian edition of Ovid’s Metamorphoses, featuring prose captions, woodcut illustrations

A foundational guide to astronomy and cosmography, with a particular focus on the practical use of the celestial globe.

A French translation by Nicolas de Herberay des Essarts of Flavius Josephus’ ancient historical work. The book has attractive illustrations and while carelessly thrown together, is nonetheless a somewhat charming book.

Introduced the equals sign (=), popularized the plus (+) and minus (−) signs in English, and include topics such as the extraction of roots, irrational numbers, and the “Rule of Equation” for algebra.

First major work on the coins of the Roman emperors, featuring detailed portraits of each emperor based on their coins and the first use of the copper plate in connection with blocks engraved for chiaroscuro printing and also the first appearance in any form of the chiaroscuro as book illustration.

The first book in the new civilité type, a French version of Innocenzo Ringhieri’s dialogue.

A treatise on the uses of the astrolabe.

A book of civility for children printed in civilité that includes instructions on how to read, pronounce, and write correctly.

A treatise on astronomy and cosmography that provided a detailed guide to creating maps and using navigational instruments.

Andreas Wechel, at Paris, in the third edition of Grammatica of De la Ramée used both i and j, u and v, in capitals as well as lower-case letters.

A summary of the “singularities” or remarkable observations found in Pliny the Elder’s Natural History, printed in two sizes of civilité and difficult to read.

A treatise that presents a comprehensive and accurate method for constructing space and foreshortening solid bodies using artistic perspective.

Details the genealogical alliances of the kings and princes of France (and Gaul) in over one thousand pages with nearly every page bearing one or more coats of arms.

A Latin Bible featuring woodcut illustrations and printed in a delicate roman font and exquisite italic.

An illustrated surgical treatise on the treatment of head wounds and fractures.

Address to the Council of Trent that boldly criticized the Church’s internal corruption.

A work of Protestant history and martyrology and the first English edition in black-letter.

Reconstructs the history of Roman emperors and is a fine example of the sober use of some monumental roman types of a style much earlier than the date of the book. It is illustrated with copper-plates and its engraved title-page and colophon are most distinguished.

An edition of Dante with notes by Landino and Vellutello, edited by Sansovino, issued in Venice by the Sessas. The text is set in italic surrounded by masses of notes in roman type.

A work on the tradition of medieval tournaments in the Holy Roman Empire.

Descriptive work of the Low Countries, richly illustrated with maps and city views. The roman type in which it is chiefly printed and the italic used in its prefatory verse are not unlike Plantin’s fonts.

A German architectural treatise that serves as a guide to understanding the five classical orders of architecture.

Forty-one varieties of letter—seven Hebrew, six Greek, twelve roman and ten italic, three scripts and three gothic.

An emblem book featuring devices (images paired with mottos) that convey heroic or moral meanings, often with explanations of their significance and users. It is a good example of Plantin’s earlier, more delicate printing.

Eight-volume Bible printed by Christophe Plantin in Antwerp between 1568 and 1573, which presented the biblical text in multiple languages (Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Aramaic, and Syriac).

A poem that highlights the author’s passionate condemnation of the decline of the printing trade due to the influx of uneducated and incompetent printers who debase the quality of printed works.

A compilation of prayers and devotional texts in six languages commonly called “Queen Elizabeth’s Prayer Book,”—a rough, tasteless black-letter volume, clumsily modelled on French Horæ, but which had great popularity.

One of the few beautiful Spanish books of the late sixteenth century, printed in a pure and elegant roman type—a contemporary life of Cardinal Ximenez, still held as a very high authority.

The first complete English translation of Euclid’s foundational mathematical work and composed in roman and italic fonts. It lacks the taste and lucidity shown in French books of like nature.

The first true modern atlas. The typography (in roman and italic fonts) stands up well under the strain of its coloured decoration.

A foundational work on English education that advocates for a gentle and encouraging teaching method over harsh physical punishment. Written in black-letter with italics.

Select images in higher quality

Traces the lineage of the archbishops of Canterbury and the first privately printed book brought out in England.

A collection of short stories structured as a frame story containing 100 tales told by a group of seven young women and three young men; they shelter in a secluded villa just outside Florence in order to escape the Black Death. It very closely imitates the Aldine style.

A Latin biography of King Alfred the Great printed in a font of Saxon. This book shows the result of the best efforts in type-founding up to that time.

Covers the reigns from Edward I to Henry V and is far ahead of most English books of its time in simplicity of arrangement and excellence of workmanship. It was published with Walsingham’s Ypodigma Neustriæ and the Ælfredi Regis Res Gestæ, both printed by Day in the same year.

Explores a vast range of philosophical and scientific inquiries about the universe through the interpretation of symbols and allegories.

A botanical work detailing around 300 plants, many from Spain and Portugal, with accompanying illustrations based on personal observation. Also set almost entirely in italic, resembling French or Italian work.

A treatise on the art of writing, which details various calligraphic hands, the Gothic alphabet, and served as a foundational text for Spanish penmanship.

A botanical and pharmaceutical work which explores the “influential, elemental, and natural effects” of a wide array of both foreign and native plants.

Contains eight Mass settings by Georges de la Hèle and was the first musical work to be printed by the Officina Plantiniana.

A German writing manual that presents a variety of well-formed German and Latin scripts, intended to serve as a fundamental guide for scribes and calligraphers of the period.

An English translation of Plutarch’s Parallel Lives, a collection of biographies of famous Greeks and Romans that served as a major source for Shakespeare’s Roman plays and considered one of the handsomest Elizabethan books. The imprint states that it was printed by Richard Field but an earlier identical edition was published by Vautrollier in the same year.

A critical analysis and commentary on the historical writings of Francesco Guicciardini and other historians.

An early etiquette manual by Erasmus to teach children proper behavior and manners, translated to French and printed in civilité.

Compiles the customary laws and rights of Antwerp. Printed in the Flemish black-letter current at that day.

A catechism and the earliest known printed work from a South American press.

A reimpression in Italian of a French book printed in 1557, it is a richly illustrated Italian edition of Ovid’s Metamorphoses, featuring prose captions, woodcut illustrations

A leaflet on the correction of the calendar.

A later full color edition of one of the earliest atlases.

A comprehensive edition of the Roman historian Tacitus’s surviving works, edited by Flemish humanist Justus Lipsius and accompanied by his commentaries. It is a beautiful book, very simply arranged.

Specimen of typefaces.

A chapbook of stories concerning the life of Johann Georg Faust.

Book on bits and bridles for horses.

A richly illustrated book documenting in detail Domenico Fontana’s monumental engineering feat of moving the ancient Egyptian obelisk to St. Peter’s Square in Rome under Pope Sixtus V.

An historical and descriptive account of the Vatican Apostolic Library including the building of the Sistine Library and a linguistic appendix of the Lord’s Prayer in many languages with the appropriate types, thus being one of the earliest collections of type specimens.

Early specimen showcasing the Medici Press’s Arabic typefaces.

Authentic reproductions of fonts cut by Garamond and Granjon.

A narrative poem about love and seduction and likely the first publication by Shakespeare.

A type specimen from Antwerp, showcasing their extensive collection of Arabic types.

The works of Chaucer. The printer had come to use roman and italic types just as we should now use black-letter—as an “occasional” type for display or ornament.

A romanticized and fictionalized account of the First Crusade and a very readable edition, and good to look at for its clarity of effect and its more modern air.

The first English translation of Pliny’s works, printed in two folio volumes, set throughout in roman and italic types of even (and early) cut. It is a handsome book of its time.

First part, Second part

First printing of the story of an aging hidalgo who loses his mind and sets out as a knight-errant. It was printed from uncouth, old style roman fonts.

An allegorical and moral voyage in Latin verse that guides the reader through a “City of Truth,” exploring virtues, vices, and the path to an ideal state.

Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3, Vol. 4, Vol. 5, Vol. 6, Vol. 7, Vol. 8

The Greek works of Chrysostom edited by Henry Savile that was the first complete edition of his works.

An extensive Italian-English dictionary and encyclopedia with italic was used for the definitions, and roman used for words.

A Latin history of Amsterdam printed entirely in roman and italic types.

First edition of the King James “Authorized Version” of the Bible.

The second and most definitive edition of Dodoens’ botanical work, featuring an engraved title page and over 1,300 woodcut illustrations of plants. It is a revised Latin edition of the book earlier issued by Plantin. The preliminary matter is set in Plantin’s superb roman and italic fonts.

Showcases the typefaces, borders, and ornaments available at the printing house in the late 16th century.

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. In this very badly planned volume, the poem is set entirely in a nervous old style italic printed in double column; but poorly designed italic in larger sizes is utilized for its prefatory matter, which is most confused in arrangement.

An historical and geographical study of ancient Sicily and its neighboring smaller islands. Less conventional in style and sometimes included as a supplement to the Italia Antiqua of 1624.

The earliest French specimen-book.

Historical work detailing the events of Venetian history from 1521 to 1615.

Shakespear’s “First Folio” of plays.

An historical and descriptive work detailing the history, institutions, and notable figures of Madrid as the court of the Catholic Monarchs of Spain. It has an engraved and much overloaded title-page, followed by an equally elaborate engraved dedication.

Also called the Mazarin edition.

An historical and geographical study of ancient Italy. Less conventional in style.

Chronicles the life and influence of Cardinal Pedro González de Mendoza. It is arranged in double columns, surrounded and separated by rules, and is greatly superior to most books of the time in its finished effect and unity of conception.

Miniature edition printed in microscopic roman type called la Sedanoise.

A pastoral tragi-comedy.

Gives an account of the siege of Breda and retains much of Plantin’s later manner. It is composed entirely in an ample roman type and is a very dignified piece of work.

A geographical treatise on Switzerland.

Miniature edition printed in microscopic roman type called la Sedanoise.

An historical and geographical overview of Scotland and Ireland.

A chorographical description and praise of the city of Haarlem printed in a stout quarto at Haarlem in a mixture of roman, italic, black-letter, and cursive letter, in various sizes.

The smallest Greek Testament ever published, second to the Pickering “Diamond” Greek Testament.

Specimen-book issued by the Vatican printing-office.

Advocates for Laurens Coster of Haarlem as the true inventor of printing and printed in a stout quarto at Haarlem in a mixture of roman, italic, black-letter, and cursive letter, in various sizes.

The smallest Greek Testament ever published. (Three pages only.)

The first book printed in the Georgian language using movable type.

A commentary on the dominions and resources of the French king.

An oratory intended for scholastic use, with the first book defining the art of rhetoric and the second explaining its divisions. It contains one of the earliest equivalents of a type specimen showing nine types.

Provided a comprehensive and concise overview of contemporary arithmetic and algebra, notable for its extensive use of mathematical symbolism, including the introduction of the multiplication sign (×) and the proportion sign (::).

An historical geography of ancient Germany. Well-set type displayed by good presswork, gives a general effect that is excellent, and the masses of Greek quotations make it look very learned

An apologetic observation on the inscription of the oration to the “antecessores” (professors of law) placed before Justinian’s Digest, defending it against certain legal scholars (I.C.) and Procopius’s Anecdota.

Shakespear’s “Second Folio” of plays.

Julius Caesar’s surviving works including commentaries on the Gallic and Civil Wars, featuring Joseph Juste Scaliger’s emendations, woodcut illustrations, and folding maps.

Three-volume set of one of the book compiling the entirety of ancient Roman knowledge.

A printing of the Roman playwright Terence’s comedies, notable for its sophisticated typography and elaborate illustrations.

A type specimen book that explains the alphabets of various Eastern languages, such as Hebrew, Arabic, Syriac, and Ethiopic.

Showcasing the classical poet’s enduring literary legacy with engraved title page and fold out map.

A world atlas, considered a masterpiece of Dutch Golden Age cartography, renowned for its detailed and beautifully engraved maps.

A law that tightened government control over printing in England, restricting the number of master printers and types, and requiring all books to be licensed by the Star Chamber.

The collected works which include verse tragedies, the long epic poem Doomes-day, and other poetic compositions. The type is rough, the presswork is rough, the paper harsh, and the whole book gives the effect of belonging to an ancient period.

A Dutch Bible printed at the command of the States-General of the United Provinces and the first translation of the Bible from the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek languages into Dutch.

An history of Rome from its foundation to the reign of Augustus.

Fifty sonnets on several persons of the Adimari family or house containing a genealogical tree of the Adimari family with a view of Florence in the background.

The first book issued by the Imprimerie Royale, printed in roman and italic in a font similar to Garamond’s common to French printers.

The first book printed in British North America.

A lavish folio edition of Virgil’s complete works.

Considered the most beautiful edition of the work at the time, showcasing sophisticated typography and engravings.

First volume of a six-volume folio edition of the Vulgate, which was notably illustrated with a frontispiece by Nicolas Poussin and engravings by Claude Mellan.

Garamond’s Caractères de l’Université, c. 1540 used in this work, defending the main tenets of Catholic faith against a writing addressed to the King by four Protestant ministers of Charenton.

Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3

In ten volumes, 32mo, and this, as Elzevirs go, is an attractive edition.

A printing of the Roman playwright Terence’s comedies produced by the Imprimerie Royale in Paris recognized for its sophisticated typography and elaborate illustrations.

A printing of the Roman playwright Terence’s comedies, notable for its sophisticated typography and elaborate illustrations.

Uses a blend of character sketches and historical biographies to describe and contrast ideal, “holy” people in various roles with “profane” individuals who embody vice. The type and presswork are vastly clearer in most English books then current.

A collection of documents from various Church councils, contributing to the record of ecclesiastical history.

A prose polemic by the English poet, scholar, and polemical author John Milton opposing licensing.

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade.

Recounts the miraculous transformations of various great saints, drawing these accounts directly from their lives. A careful and lively copy of the agreeable calligraphy of the period.

A collection of sixteen verse satires offering a critique of perceived moral decay, greed, and hypocrisy in Roman society. (Volume 7 only)

A monumental ten-volume work exemplifies ambitious 17th-century typography and nearly bankrupted its promoter due to the immense cost and seventeen-year undertaking of producing such a complex, multi-language edition.

A maritime encyclopaedia including a maritime atlas of the entire world, which is the first such in print, the first made by an Englishman, and the first to use the Mercator projection.

First comprehensive scientific study of Brazil's natural history, detailing its flora, fauna, and indigenous medicine with extensive illustrations.

The epic tale of Aeneas that contains examples of all Moreau’s fonts.

A collection of character sketches that describes ideal archetypes for various professions and roles in society, contrasting them with biographies of “profane” individuals.

A beautiful 17th-century architectural folio, notable for its picturesque, archaic typefaces and superb typography enhanced by exquisite engraved copper-plates.

Presents the biblical text in up to nine languages—including Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Persian, and Ethiopic—with parallel translations to allow for comparative study.

An illustrated treatise showcasing mechanical devices and architectural structures.

A specimen of Hebrew and Anglo-Saxon types submitted to Oxford University.

A description of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, including its architecture, history, and royal pantheon. It is set in a handsome old style roman type with patches of italic here and there. The presswork, however, is miserable—most uneven in colour.

Select pictures, Scans of illustrations

An early and highly-regarded English translation of Homer’s epic poem translated by John Ogilby, distinguished by its lavish, detailed illustrations and extensive annotations.

Julius Caesar’s surviving works in octavo with larger type, handsomer, more leaded, and easier to read.

A Puritan poem on the terrors of hell.

First translation of the Christian Bible into an indigenous American language.

A detailed and illustrated guide that chronicles Amsterdam’s origins with a contemporary account, describing the establishment much as John Evelyn must have seen it. Quoted in Willem Janszoon Blaeu, 1571–1638: A Sketch of His Life and Work (1914).

Volume 1, Volume 2

A collection of Pierre Corneille’s plays, showcasing his influential contributions to French classical tragedy and comedy. Text is in a heavy old style type, awkward and archaic a work as can be conceived.

A folio containing selected and translated lives of various illustrious saints from different centuries and printed from very handsome, delicate old style type, more elegant and maigre in effect than is usually found in books of this period.

A collection of short stories structured as a frame story containing 100 tales told by a group of seven young women and three young men. Considered so remarkable in its day, this edition now appears as a merely “well-enough” little book for the pocket.

Broadside specimen referenced in The Brothers Vosken and Their Successors by Douglas C. McMurtrie.

First English specimen.

Issues: 1665–1954, 1909–2016, 2016–2020, 2023–Present

The earliest academic journal published in Europe. The 1755 edition of Fables Choisies was the subject of an elaborate attack, defence, and rejoinder, in the September 1756 issue. The critic, from internal evidence, may have been a type-founder.

Michel Le Clerc’s French metrical translation of Tasso’s Gerusalemme Liberata. It is not a beautiful book, but the italic used for the text of the translation is a characteristic lively French font of the period, though much less fine than sixteenth century italic

Proposes a universal language based on a systematic classification of all knowledge, with the goal of creating a logical system for clear communication and the advancement of learning.

An English translation of Parallèle de l’Architecture Antique et de la Moderne, a 17th-century architectural folio.

A lavishly illustrated 1668 second edition and poetic adaptation, which features intricate engravings by Wenceslaus Hollar and others, extensive annotations, and is notable for its artistic and literary ambition.

A second-edition English translation of Virgil’s complete works with a rich collection of engravings and annotations by the translator, John Ogilby. A fine edition of a classic.

A seven-language dictionary of Hebrew, Chaldaic, Syriac, Samaritan, Ethiopic, Arabic, and Persian, created over 18 years.

The first complete English type specimen known.

Broadside specimen referenced in The Brothers Vosken and Their Successors by Douglas C. McMurtrie.

Documents and illustrates a series of elaborate equestrian games and tournaments held by King Louis XIV and his court in 1662.

Additional specimen

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, Volume 4

The first collected edition of four biographies, which were originally published separately. In spite of its antiquated appearance, it is a readable volume with a certain agreeable flavour.

Volumes: 1672–1674, 1678–1682, 1724–1791 and 1890–1935

A French gazette and literary magazine first published in the 17th century, but after several incarnations has evolved as a publisher.

First edition of biographical and historical encyclopedia that served as a key reference work for over a century and provided the framework for later encyclopedic projects.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

A collection of writings by Arnauld d’Andilly encompassing his religious translations, pious poetry, letters, and other works.

A reprint of Saint Augustine’s autobiographical work, Confessions, detailing his spiritual journey and conversion to Christianity.

One of the earliest books devoted to the history of Spanish printing.

English translation of the classic, notable for the quality in which it was printed.

A large multi-volume atlas renowned for its extensive collection of highly detailed and beautifully illustrated maps. The German edition was printed with fraktur and is not available but Dutch editions from 1648–1659 and 1664–1665 are available.

A pocket-sized edition of the important treatise on Roman Law.

Virgil’s complete works. Considered so remarkable in its day, this edition now appears as a merely “well-enough” little book for the pocket. Volume 1 only.

A series of treatises on the trades of the smith, jointer, carpenter, printing, letter-cutting, type-casting, etc.

Early technical instruction for printers.

A providential view of world history from creation to Charlemagne, intended for the instruction of the Dauphin. A specimen of luxurious seventeenth century book.

A new type (small pica) was specially cut for this edition by Joseph Moxon at the expense of Robert Boyle and was the only Irish font in England until 1800.

Types cut by Christoffel van Dyck and sold at the residence of the widow of Daniel Elsevier.

Issued by the widow of Daniel Elzevir.

Description of the Royal Invalides hospital established by Louis XIV near Paris.

An historical account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico and the early development of New Spain. It is a good example of a late seventeenth century folio.

A broadside specimen with five fonts of titling, sixteen of roman an italic, eight of black-letter, and two of music.

A posthumous collection of the major writings of the English polymath and physician Sir Thomas Browne.

Editions: 1686, 1693, 1695, 1706, 1768, 1787, 1794, 1925

A type specimen book showcasing the diverse range of printing typefaces donated to Oxford University.

Baroque novel that blends elements of the “state novel” with adventurous exoticism, drawing on historical and travel accounts.

A London-based newspaper notable for being printed with a script-like font and leaving blank spaces for readers to add their own news and correspondence.

Dramatizes the biblical story of Queen Athaliah, who usurps the throne of Judah and attempts to eradicate the royal line of David. It is very antique in style, and, though imposing, tasteless.

A comprehensive collection of works by ancient Greek mathematicians, including Euclid, Archimedes, and Apollonius. It employed all the aids known to luxurious book-making at that day and utterly failed in elegance and simplicity, and by the same token belongs to its epoch.

The poetry is set in roman type heavily leaded, and the names of speakers in spaced italic capitals. Arguments are set in the inevitable italic, with proper names in roman. The narrow measure of the type-pages and the enormous margins give an air of great luxury.

A biography of the renowned Dutch naval hero Admiral Michiel de Ruyter. A more or less commonplace performance. The book is composed in a light variety of old style roman, with the numerous quoted documents arranged in italic.

An illustrated book showcasing and explaining the designs of medals issued during the reign of King Louis XIV.

A quarto volume, with much the same title, also published in 1702, does not employ these types, and is not to be confused with the folio edition.

A reprint of a 17th-century architectural folio of the same name in lesser quality.

The first detailed account from a key player in the events it covered and provided the money for the erection in 1713 of the Clarendon Building, designed for the press by Vanbrugh.

Historical work primarily focusing on the Eighty Years’ War and the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule.

Volume 1, Volume 2

This covered the art of designing letters, of cutting their punches, of letter-press printing, and of book-binding. The plates in volume 1 include the celebrated diagram of 2023 squares on which letters were to be designed.

A type specimen book of ornamental characters and announced one to follow with exotic alphabets, ordinary types, music, ornaments, et autres enjolivements. This specimen has been re-issued in facsimile by D. C. McMurtrie, Chicago, 1924.

A Latin work published posthumously, studying ancient coinage, economies, cultures, and histories of the civilizations that produced them. It was printed using Bordazar’s texto from his Plantificacion with a variant italic.

Systematically studies the history and development of Greek handwriting, coining the very term “palaeography” to describe this discipline.

Translated from an original Old English text by Ælfric of Eynsham, and recounts how he initiated the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. It is a good example of a well-made edition, issued by a careful publisher for a distinguished company of subscribers.

A small quarter book in Latin about printing and printing types as well as a survey of the German printing industry.

Works of Julius Caesar, including his commentaries on the Gallic and civil wars.

A history of printing’s invention and development in Europe.

The first grammar of Old English to be published in English.

A good example of another luxurious contemporary edition of the classic.

Ordered by Peter the Great and printed in The Hague in two folio volumes with the Dutch text (entirely in capital letters) on the right, the other column being left blank for a Slav translation.

A luxuriously printed edition.

The first collected edition of Alexander Pope’s poems and essays. It is an instructive piece of type-setting, composed throughout in old style roman and italic, of Dutch cut and characteristic of early eighteenth century work.

Summarizes geography lessons on European rivers and notably composed and partially printed by the eight-year-old King Louis XV himself, as an educational exercise.

A luxurious edition of the collection of selected poems by Matthew Prior, a prominent English poet and diplomat.

A collection of 100 fables, presented in an elegantly illustrated first edition and accompanied by a theoretical discourse on the fable.

The diverse works of the Augustinian scholar and bishop, including the contents of his earlier work, the Bibliotheca Aspostolica Vaticana.

A collection of nature poems that minutely describe natural phenomena as reflections of God’s perfectly ordered universe, celebrating creation as a means to praise the divine.

Ordered by Peter the Great and printed in Amsterdam, in four folio volumes with the Dutch text (entirely in capital letters) on the right, the other column being left blank for a Slav translation.

A luxurious edition of the writings of Joseph Addison, a prominent English essayist, poet, and politician, published posthumously.

Brings together polemical writings defending the Church of England against dissenters. It is a full-bodied edition that shows a more modern point of view in book-making—old-fashioned, but not archaic.

1721 edition, 1733 edition

A German treatise on printing, detailing the complete operations of an 18th-century printing house and specimens of types and ornaments.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

A collection of the works of legal scholar John Selden printed with the English fonts of roman, italic, and Hebrew cut by Caslon.

An 11-volume illustrated work that sought to comprehensively document and depict the religious rites and customs of diverse peoples across the globe. Volumes 1–9 available.

An illustrated book showcasing and explaining the designs of medals issued during the reign of King Louis XIV.

An enlarged folio edition covering the entire reign, with different explications than previous editions.

Treatise that comprehensively outlines the entire printing process, from typefounding and composition to presswork and binding, offering insights into 18th-century printing house operations.

The first to be edited by a major poet, Alexander Pope, who attempted to correct and regularize the text while also adding critical commentary and an influential preface.

A multi-volume collection of correspondence, spanning from 1652 to 1669, between Johan de Witt, the influential Grand Pensionary of Holland, and various plenipotentiaries of the United Netherlands. It has a congested red and black title-page and is a perfectly straightforward quarto, set from heavy, awkward old style types, moderately well printed, on moderately good paper.

Featured a new Arabic font by William Caslon, a revised translation of the Psalms, and was intended for distribution among Christian communities.

A comprehensive and witty chronicle of 18th-century English society.

A sarcastic memoir on Parisian booksellers and printers, which, though not, perhaps, to be taken too seriously, casts light upon the situation at that time.

The first edition of the authoritative Dictionary of the Spanish Language (Diccionario de la lengua Castellana) published in six folio volumes.

A missionary publication printed with a new Arabic font cut by William Caslon, edited by Syrian scholar Salomon Negri, and intended for distribution among Christian communities.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

A collected edition of the varied literary and scientific writings of Bernard Le Bovier de Fontenelle.

A miniature Latin edition of Phaedrus’s fables in verse and the moral maxims (sententiae) of Publilius Syrus. The interesting Latin preface makes allusion to the types, which are clear though minute; but Luce’s Premier Alphabeth (also called perle) is almost impossible to read.

A substantial five-volume illustrated history of France.

The first German treatise on the art of poetry to apply the standards of reason and good taste advocated by Nicolas Boileau.

Chronicles the life and travels of Monsieur de Renoncour and contains the original edition of Prévost’s The Story of Manon Lescaut. It is a good example of Dutch typography.

The first scholar to publish the Pentateuch with a Latin translation.

A handsomely printed tractate of some twenty folio pages outlining detailed plans and budgets for establishing a royal printing press in Spain.

A collection of sixty copperplate engravings by Bernard Picart, illustrating various fables and stories from Greek and Roman mythology, with captions in multiple languages. The typography is extremely handsome. The fonts used—of a bold, massive sort—are impressive in effect.

Volume 1, Volume 2

This two-volume, quarto edition, commonly known as the “Pine's Horace,” is notable for its innovative use of copperplate engravings on every page to both illustrate and present the entire text of Horace’s poetry.

English translation of an 11-volume illustrated work that sought to comprehensively document and depict the religious rites and customs of diverse peoples across the globe. Volumes 1–8 available.

The complete works of the French playwright Molière.

Caslon’s first broadside specimen sheet.

Analyzes the political and moral factors that led to the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and is a good example of Dutch typography.

A collection of poetry. It is overloaded with rather ill-printed head and tail-pieces, and an ambitious performance and a characteristic eighteenth century “Table-book.”

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. Printed in roman instead of italic. The title-page is printed in red and black, in all sorts of sizes of italic capitals and lower-case characters; the prefatory matter is exaggerated in composition; the final notes are unattractive.

First edition biography of Henri de La Tour d’Auvergne, Vicomte de Turenne.

Issued in commemoration of the death of Maria Clementina Sobieski, wife of the Old Pretender and in languages including Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Syriac, Armenian, Chaldaic, Coptic, Ruthenian, German, and even the tongue of Malabar—every language except English.

Volume 1, Volume 2

Second edition of a universal dictionary of arts and sciences, notable for its extensive cross-referencing and its influential role as a precursor to later encyclopedic works. Contains the first published Caslon specimen.

Aimed to popularize Isaac Newton’s scientific and philosophical ideas and is a good example of Dutch typography.

First deluxe edition ever printed, and first edition in Spanish published in England.

Engraved for the Imprimerie Royale, showcasing examples of upright and slanted alphabets adorned with borders and cartouches.

A rejection of the traditional poetic principle of imitation of nature for the benefit of the creative imagination.

An illustrated commemorative book detailing the grand celebrations, fireworks, illuminations, and a ball held in Paris to honor the marriage of Madame Louise-Elisabeth of France to Dom Philippe, Infant of Spain.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, Volume 4

Schrift-Probe excerpt from 1739 by Bernhard Christoph Breitkopf

Details the art of printing and typefounding for 18th-century printmaking practices.

Set entirely in old style capitals with a few characters imitating those of an ancient and famous manuscript Virgil in rustic characters, in the Laurentian Library, Florence.

A specimen book showcasing the various typefaces and ornaments available.

A a 16mo specimen with the same date and imprint as Modèles des Charactères.

A specimen similar to that which forms part of the Manuel was published separately, but did not contain all the types shown in that work.

Fournier le jeune’s earliest specimen showcasing his influential typeface designs and typographic ornaments that helped define the transitional style in printing.

A type specimen book showcasing the array of typefaces and printing ornaments available from the Parisian foundry of Claude Mozet, a prominent typefounder and engraver of the period.

A collection of the Rousseau’s works in three large quarto volumes and is in its massive qualities almost a seventeenth century edition, but it has an element of taste about it that the seventeenth century did not afford.

Posthumously published, it is a dictionary that traces the etymological origins of English words, heavily emphasizing their connections to Germanic languages. It is a fine edition and may be looked at for its use of the Junius Anglo-Saxon and other northern types.

Contains laws relating to bookselling and printing in Paris in the eighteenth century.

A philosophical poem that offers advice on maintaining well-being and was a book meant to be smart and luxurious.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, Volume 4, Volume 5, Volume 6

A six-volume set using ornaments sparingly like Baskerville but antedating Baskerville’s first books.

Type specimen book of characters accompanying another book of ornaments.

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. This edition owes its chief splendour to Piazzetta’s illustrations and ornaments and is an effective piece of printing.

Type specimen book of ornaments accompanying another book of characters.

A reprint of the philosophical poem that offers advice on maintaining well-being.

Volume 1, Volume 2

A 16mo edition of the seven surviving tragedies of the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus.

A richly illustrated 18th-century collection of travel narratives from around the world comprising 20 volumes.

An illustrated five-volume collection of the influential French critic’s works, featuring a portrait by Rigaud and illustrations by artists like Eisen and Cochin, alongside new notes and commentaries by M. de Saint-Marc.

One of the earliest books published by the Enschedés. The preface alludes to the abilities of Rudolph Wetstein as a printer and type-founder, and mentions that the Enschedés bought his foundry in 1743.

Chronicles the life and accomplishments of Francesco Morosini, the Venetian Doge renowned for his military campaigns in the Peloponnese.

A religious epic in 20 songs.

A 16mo collection of the satires of the Roman poets Juvenal and Persius.

A type specimen book from a Parisian type foundry, showcasing their collection of typefaces, including new “arrondis” (rounded) italics.

Describes the wall paintings found during the excavations of Herculaneum and their importance to understanding ancient art.

A multi-volume work of the Enlightenment that aimed to compile and systematize all human knowledge, promote reason, and implicitly challenge the existing political and religious authorities.

A brochure announcing the opening of the Academy of San Fernando.

Type specimen possibly with the full title of Nouveau caractère de finance, en deux parties. La première sur le corps de Trismegiste est appelée Bâtarde, & la seconde, Bâtarde coulée, qui est sur le Paragon..., par Fournier le je, Rue Saint Étienne des Grès, Paris, 1752.

The text is printed only on one side of leaves and features elaborate engravings by Richard Bentley.

The tragic story of a young man, the Chevalier des Grieux, who sacrifices his promising future for his overwhelming and destructive love for Manon Lescaut. First definitive edition, which fixed the text for later editions. It is a good example of Dutch typography.

Elegantly printed and illustrated editions of classical Latin authors, comprising 76 volumes known for their Elzevir-style typography.

A French literary periodical known for its critical reviews and polemical stance on contemporary literature.

Editions: 1754, 1755, and 1756

“Relations” of the distribution of prizes for the Academy of San Fernando including some admirably arranged verse; the Address of the Academy on the accession of Carlos III, by Perez de Soto; and similar examples of work by Ibarra. Almost all of these are carefully executed from old style types.

Volume 1, Volume 2

Among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language.

The complete hymns and epigrams of Callimachus.

A 16mo printing of the ancient Greek play “The Clouds,” a comedy that satirizes intellectual and philosophical trends of its time.

An illustrated four-volume edition, featuring engravings after designs by Jean-Baptiste Oudry.

A specimen of typefaces designed for printing musical notation.

A celebrated edition of the works of Horace.

Significant editions of the classics.

A type specimen book showcasing the range of typefaces available from the Briquet typefoundry in Paris.

Type specimen.

A type specimen book showcasing the typefaces available from the Sanlecque foundry in Paris.

Illustrated catalog of the artifacts and paintings unearthed from the excavations of Herculaneum.

An illustrated multi-volume work that documented the archaeological discoveries from the excavations of Herculaneum, Pompeii, and other sites around the Gulf of Naples.

Edition of Dante’s Divine Comedy with Volume I being printed in red and black, with a delightful copper-plate vignette in bright blue. Printed on agreeable paper (but not well printed) from light old style roman types.

Baskerville’s first book.

Early specimen showing four paragraphs of roman and italic fonts.

A second edition of Lamesle’s specimen book from 1742 with some variations.

Baskerville’s second book, a two-volume edition with illustrations, telling the story of Satan’s rebellion against God and the fall of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

A collection of historical and critical essays that examine the origins and evolution of printing, focusing on the technical aspects and refuting theories about its invention.

A collection of blank verse poetry and previously unprinted letters set in a delicate old style character.

A beautifully printed three-volume collection of Plautus’s surviving comedies

A poetic and philosophical reinterpretation of the biblical books of Ecclesiastes, emphasizing life's vanity, and the Song of Songs, celebrating love, both presented with his characteristic skeptical and rationalist perspective. Produced under her supervision of Madame de Pompadour.

German type specimen book originally published in 1759 with a second edition, enlarged, in 1769, sometimes to be found with a supplement dated 1782.

A type specimen book of typefaces and ornaments produced Nicolas Gando and his son. It contains most of the material which appeared in Lamesle’s book with some rearrangements and additions.

Types specimen of schwabacher and fraktur types.

A catalog of over 1800 Arabic manuscripts, primarily by Arab-Hispanic authors, held in the library of the Escorial Monastery in Spain and printed using Bordazar’s texto from his Plantificacion.

Details the collection of Arabic manuscripts, many by Arab-Hispanic authors, housed in the library of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. It was printed in Latin and Arabic.

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. As such books go, it is a fine edition, rough and slipshod in execution, but telling and full-blooded. The types are a series of rough old style fonts, displayed lines of capitals being much spaced.

A poetic treatise on painting printed with very modern pages in lightness of effect.

A 12mo Latin edition and a very well-bred little book—but, like many other well-bred things, rather colourless. Types such as it is set in had to be cleverly handled to look well—and this is a good example of Foulis’s clever handling.

A re-publication of a 17th-century tragedy, a dark and complex play centered on the ruthless Syrian Queen Cleopatra. King Louis XVI summoned a detachment of workmen from the Imprimerie Royale to print it for Madame de Pompadour with the imprint Au Nord because her apartment was situated at the north of the palace.

Specimen of roses and ornaments. Also called Abdruck von denjenigen Röslein und Zierrathen.

Editions: 1760, 1761, 1762 (single-column, single-column with decorative borders, double-column)

Celebrated for its elegant typeface, clean design, and high-quality printing

A collection of the satires of the Roman poets Juvenal and Persius. This is very simply arranged. The argument to each Satire is set in a large size of Baskerville’s italic, and the text in roman is more leaded than in the Virgil and accordingly much improved.

Tells the tragic love story, through letters, of a young, noble woman named Julie d’Étange and her tutor and is a good example of Dutch typography.

A congratulatory address to George III on his accession including some Greek type that was later destroyed in a fire in 1764.

Includes essays, poems, plays, and other literary works. The volumes may be vastly superior in brilliancy and clearness of effect to other books of the time, but for the text a Caslon, or even “Fell” letter, would have been better if the same attention had been given to presswork.

A philosophical treatise that outlines a radical, “natural” method of education for a fictional boy, Émile, and is a good example of Dutch typography.

A bordered specimen which gives a somewhat more accurate idea of his type-design.

A broadside specimen with eight varieties of roman—from double pica to brevier—and six sizes of italic.

A collection of lighthearted and bawdy, yet literary and poetic short stories presented in verse, known for its Rococo book design.

Argues that legitimate political authority derives not from divine right or conquest, but from a “social contract” where individuals voluntarily unite to form a sovereign body. It is a good example of Dutch typography.

This was the first specimen-book issued in England.

Details and justifies the proposed corrections and alterations to the text and punctuation of a specific edition of the New Testament.

Second edition of Bowyer’s New Testament in Greek with notes.

A King James Version Bible (also known as the Baskerville Bible) renowned for its elegant typography and high-quality printing.

This royal decree outlines the new printing regulations and the agreement between the Monasterio de El Escorial and the Compañia de Libreros.

Printed on a broadside, it details the fire at Harvard in 1764 and the losses as a result.

A royal decree that stipulates that while the Escorial monks retain the exclusive right to supply all liturgical books for the Spanish Church, their printing must now occur within Spain through a specific contract. It accompanied a royal decree outlining the new printing regulations.

A work of art history that, for the first time, systematically traces the chronological development of ancient art.

A large specimen sheet entitled with 46 different sorts of books, with sizes, cost price, and selling price accompanying a royal decree outlining the new printing regulations.

A small typeface specimen book showcasing available types for printing ecclesiastical prayer books including 18 varieties of type ranging from gran-canon to glossillo, arranged with two specimens to a page, and a sentence in each kind of type, rubricated.

Details the theory and practice of typefounding, showcases an extensive array of his innovative typefaces and typographic ornaments, and introduces his influential point system for consistent type measurement.

A three-volume collection of French songs, featuring engraved music and illustrations.

An historical account of the city of Haarlem. Very appropriately printed but not much of a performance. The dull, light, roman and italic types have lost all colour and spirit.

An historical and critical examination of the evolution of movable type for printing music, showcasing new musical typefaces he designed for French printers.

A broadside specimen of types modelled after Baskerville’s.

Volume 1, Volume 2 Part 1, Volume 2 Part 2

Encyclopedic work about the sciences and fine arts, covering topics from grammar and rhetoric to architecture and printing, intended for the instruction of young people and a general audience.

A collection of moral and political maxims extracted from Fénelon's Télémaque, notably printed by the future King Louis XVI (then Dauphin Louis Auguste) as an educational exercise to impart lessons on just governance.

An eight-volume set that likely inspired Baskerville’s title pages.

An interesting Greek specimen issued, which comprised the work of Granjon, Hautin, Deviliers, and Picart. Alternate title: Caractères Grecs de la Taille de Robert Granjon, Nicolas Deviliers, Pierre Hautin & Jean Picart.

An edition that included a Latin inscription prefixed to it and given to Harvard.

Type specimen book with the full title of, Épreuves des Caractères à l’usage de l’Imprimerie. Avec differentes sortes de Vignettes. À Paris: Chez Fournier Fils, Graveur & Fondeur en Caractères d’Imprimerie, rue du Foin St. Jacques à côté de la Chambre Syndicale des Libraires.

A vote of thanks for several valuable books sent by Bowyer including the Greek Testament and Letters of Erasmus. The letter appears in the 1812 edition of the memoirs of Bowyer.

Volumes: 1764, 1767, 1768, 1770 (vol. 3), 1775 (vol. 4), 1775 (vols. 5 & 6), 1778 (vol. 7)

A 17-volume collection of annual publications featuring obituaries and biographies of notable French figures who died in the preceding year.

A type specimen book, showcasing the various characters, fonts, and ornaments available. Probably put out by J. F. Rosart at Brussels about 1761

Wilson cut a special font of double pica roman for this edition of melancholy and meditative works.

Type specimens of the typefaces published by the Joh. Enschedé firm.

Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, Volume 4

A biography of Louis II de Bourbon, Prince de Condé, illustrated with plans of sieges and battles from his military campaigns.

An example of the French fashion of printing, it was published for the wedding of Ferdinand, Duke of Parma to Maria Amelia.

An example of the French fashion of printing, a serenata composed for the wedding festivities of Maria Theresa’s daughter and the Duke of Parma, featuring a prologue and three acts celebrating love, heroism, and the arts.

Editions: 1769, 1771, 1777, 1789

These lectures are considered one of the most influential works of art criticism and theory of the 18th century.

A rare Lyons specimen of types reprinted in 1923 and again in 1935 shows Fournier le jeune’s influence.

A detailed travelogue that documents his extensive travels and observations across these European countries including an account of a large printing-office in the Calle de las Carretas [sic], a street so called, and chiefly inhabited by printers and booksellers.

Described as the Foulis’ “last typographical achievement in the grand manner” telling the story of Satan’s rebellion against God and the fall of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

The volume had a novel feature, i.e., that with each specimen of type shown, the name of the foundry from which it comes is given.

An elaborately illustrated type specimen book, showcasing thirty roman bodies and the same number of italic. Luce tried to make a font different from anything which the Imprimerie Royale has employed.

A type specimen catalogue showcasing various typefaces designed and cast at his own foundry in Madrid.

Surveys the historical development of printing in Europe and England and serves as a practical manual detailing the technical aspects and processes of the printing trade.

One of Ibarra’s excellent editions of Don Quixote.

A type specimen book showcasing the extensive collection of typefaces available from the Parisian printing and typefounding firm run by the Widow Hérissant.

Earliest specimen of Wilson.

A Spanish and Latin book widely considered one of the finest examples of 18th-century Spanish typography and bookmaking.

An epic poem from the Renaissance. It is a very good specimen of the Venetian printing of its time, and perfectly readable.

An interesting octavo specimen of types and ornaments.

A comprehensive listing of books published in various languages by the Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith’s printing house.

A two-volume collection of allegorical fables in verse, esteemed for its Rococo illustrations by Clément-Pierre Marillier and numerous engravers.

An “ancient” and respectable establishment, and its productions up to the year 1773 may be seen in this specimen.

A collection of satirical and didactic Italian poems so far from Bodoni’s later style that it is at first sight difficult to believe that he printed it.

1793 edition

A catalogue of books printed in numerous languages by the Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith’s press in Rome.

A tragedy so far from Bodoni’s later style that it is at first sight difficult to believe that he printed it.

Volume 1, Volume 2

Love poems alongside a translation of Boethius’s The Consolation of Philosophy.

A two-volume collection of various works, including his Latin and Spanish epigrams, poems, translations, and critical essays.

Displays Bodoni’s early exotic typefaces created for the baptism of Ludovico, Prince of Parma. Also referred to as Iscrizioni esotiche.

A literary journal published in eight volumes specifically aimed at female readers, featuring a range of content including poetry and prose from both male and female authors.

A liturgical book that aimed to revive and standardize the ancient Mozarabic Rite.

A collection of wedding odes translated into various “exotic” languages, demonstrating Giambattista Bodoni’s skill in casting and printing diverse non-Latin typefaces.

A descriptive poem celebrating the changing seasons, often accompanied by beautiful illustrations. The book is a very good example of the use of somewhat refined old style types; though it is greatly disfigured by the heavy rules on the title-page and below running-titles.

Two specimens, one including seven fonts and five rows of ornaments.

Collects the poems of Thomas Gray and includes a biographical memoir of the poet's life and work.

An influential Spanish calligraphy manual which presented a new, more efficient national script based on the work of Pedro Diaz Morante and included 40 engraved plates of calligraphic examples.

The first printed version and using the Caslon letter.

An historical dictionary providing notices and biographies of various artists and craftspeople.

Historical and descriptive dictionary that provides biographical entries and critical notices on architects, painters, engravers, sculptors, musicians, actors, dancers, printers, and mechanics.

Critiques and analyzes the Old and New Testaments and is a good example of Dutch typography.

An eighteenth-century collection of plays, distinguished by its inclusion of engravings of contemporary actors in costume.

An historical survey of music from ancient times up to the 18th century.

First edition, second edition, third edition (vols. 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 18)

A travelogue detailing the artistic and architectural treasures of Spain and in which Ponz hopes that the institution will publish works by national authors once the Royal Press is established.

A specimen book showcasing the typefaces available at the printing press of the Convent of Saint Joseph in Barcelona.

Type specimen containing some cursive types, four of which Pierres possessed.

Documents and celebrates the “Fête des Bonnes-Gens” (Festival of Good People) and was printed in easy old style eighteenth century French types, with which the decorations admirably accord.

A legal brief that details a legal dispute between the Simon-Pierre Fournier (the Elder) and Antoine Frournier, a minor.

The third augmented edition of a type specimen book from 1779, showcasing the typefaces of the Brussels-based foundry of the Widow Decellier, who succeeded the prominent punchcutter and typefounder Jacques-François Rosart.

An historical chronicle detailing the reign of King John II of Castile.

A of erotic poems, notable for its illustrations that vividly explores themes of love and sensuality through various types of kisses.

A play as a fervent plea for religious tolerance.

A preliminary work to a projected, but unfinished, history of the invention of printing, offering insights and a general overview.

Reproduced in the article “William Bulmer” in The Fleuron No. V, 1926.

An historical account of the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic Monarchs, from their marriage in 1469 until the beginning of the Granada campaign.

The first single-volume edition of the Royal Spanish Academy’s dictionary.

A great edition printed by Ibarra.

An historical account of Spain, known for its research, accuracy, sagacity, and prose.

A scholarly work on Hebrew and Samaritan numismatics using Bordazar’s texto from his Plantificacion.

An historical account that illuminates the operations and significance of the Ripoli printing press in Florence during the 15th century, serving as a vital resource for understanding early Florentine typography.

A specimen of new typography, specifically an “English-style” typeface.

Type specimen published at The Hague that contains some of the Rosart material.

An illustrated travelogue offering an extensive visual and textual account of the Kingdom of Naples and Sicily.

One of Ibarra’s excellent editions of Don Quixote and considered the most important “the finest edition which Spain has produced and perhaps altogether the most estimable one we have.”

Specimen of Russian characters.

A French verse translation of Virgil’s Georgics by Jacques Delille (also known as Abbé de Lille), celebrated for its elegant and refined style.

A prospectus of an edition of a work first brought out in 1757 by the Comte de Caylus and J. B. Mariette, which reproduced frescoes discovered at Herculaneum. This new edition used some of the new types of Didot l’aîné includin a beautiful transitional font, which retains the charm of old style letter, but has a touch of grace and delicacy which makes it very much of its period.

A catalog of specimens sold at auction.

Earliest broadside speicmen from Wilson.

A detailed historical account of the Spanish conquest of Mexico.

Vetus, Nova

Bibliographies that collectively document Spanish writers and their works from ancient times up to the late 17th century.

A series of exquisitely printed editions of both French and Latin classical authors by generations of the Didot family.

Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3, Vol. 4, Vol. 5, Vol. 6, Vol. 7, Vol. 8, Vol. 9

An historical account of Spain that includes the original work and later continuations, providing insights into the nation’s history, politics, and culture.

A poetic work celebrating the advancements in printing, notably showcasing the innovative typography designed by his brother Firmin Didot and the use of fine wove paper.

A collection of poetry, prose, and inscriptions which is probably one of the most beautiful memorial volumes ever produced.

Volume 1, Volume 2

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. It is a beautiful example of Didot’s printing.

A Spanish translation and adaptation of the French work Histoire des deux Indes by Guillaume-Thomas Raynal, providing an account of the European colonial empires and their overseas establishments. It might easily be mistaken for a French edition of a little earlier date.

A Spanish periodical that disseminated news on literature, art, and science from Madrid and beyond.

Type specimen with a supplement issued in 1790.

The Kehl editions of Voltaire (with the imprint Société Littéraire Typographique) were printed from Baskerville’s type, purchased by Beaumarchais for the purpose. Artistically a success, it was financially a complete failure.

A specimen of types and ornaments. Franklin called Thomas the “American Baskerville.”

A specimen “which will mix with and be totally unknown from the most approved Founts made by the late ingenious artist, William Caslon.”

A specimen showcasing various types and including an address to the public in which they express their distaste for imitators of their types—prompted by a similar specimen from Joseph Fry and Sons published in the same year.

Bodoni’s edition of Anacreon’s Odes—a most beautiful book (printed entirely in capital letters) in Greek and Latin.

A type specimen book showcasing the extensive array of typefaces. The types, printed on one side of the page only, begin with very large sizes of old style roman from Caslon, and as they become smaller, roman and italic of the same size appear on one page.

A letter to the Marquis de Cubières in Italian and French in which Bodoni expresses the idea of printing a typographic manual.

French translation of a poem from 1569 that highlights the author’s passionate condemnation of the decline of the printing trade due to the influx of uneducated and incompetent printers who debase the quality of printed works.

A sonnet mourning the death of Joaquín Ibarra published before the year’s end, who was King Charles III’s esteemed printer.

Type specimen published posthumously.

The effect of the pages of the poems is very noble and most readable, owing to the large size of fine type in which the text is set.

A literary edition of Shakespeare’s complete works, published in 20 volumes with comprehensive notes from prominent commentators and numerous illustrations.

A 70-volume set of the complete works of Voltaire.

Universal dictionary of arts and sciences, notable for its extensive cross-referencing and its influential role as a precursor to later encyclopedic works.

Published with types by his son Firmin, a collection of new fables, various poems, and a significant epistle on the advancements of printing.

An edition of the Greek New Testament printed in part by using a font resembling an ancient character used in the Codex Alexandrinus.

A specimen which shows Wilson’s merits and defects better his earlier broadside.

Alludes to and expands upon the story of Goethe’s The Sorrows of Young Werther from the perspective of the character Charlotte.

A type specimen book by Momoro, who later became the “First Printer of National Liberty.”

A catalog from 1787 showcasing the range of printing types and fonts offered by the London-based foundry.

A type specimen gifted by Isaiah Thomas to the American Antiquarian Society. Three images available.

Volume 1, Volume 2

A collection of the writings of the influential French theologian, writer, and Archbishop Fénelon. Beautifully imposed and printed on a rich papier d’Annonay, made for the book.

An epic poem that vividly recounts a fictionalized version of the First Crusade. It’s an example of Zatta’s more intimate style, and much better printed than his later works. It is set in a workmanlike eighteenth century roman face, slightly leaded.

A specimen book showcasing new typefaces created for the Spanish Royal Library.

An abridged edition based on Smith’s history of printing and including a reprint of a specimen from Edmund Fry and Co.

A two-volume account of Swinburn’s journey through the country, with a particular focus on illustrating Roman and Moorish architecture.

A Spanish type specimen book, showcasing the new printing fonts created for the Royal Library. The type was probably all cut by Geromino Gil, though no supporting statement is made except on the first page.

A collection of the writings of the influential French theologian, writer, and Archbishop Fénelon. The shape of letter used is still old style, but it is so thin and fragile that it is scarcely recognizable as old style at all.

Enlarged edition of Chamber’s Cylopædia with Alexander Wilson’s broadside specimen included with the entry for printing.

Part 1, Part 2

An eary specimen-book published in folio without a preface or extended text. Part 1 includes Serie de’caratteri greci de Giambatista [sic] Bodoni among others.

An early type specimen book showcasing Bodoni’s evolving modern roman and italic typefaces, along with samples of various other scripts.

A more credible example of the work of Ibarra’s widow and sons printed in a handsome quarto.

Specimen of capital letters and chancery type.

Specimen of capital and cancellerian letters.

Bell’s first specimen of types.

A descriptive poem that celebrates the cyclical changes of nature throughout the year and the sort of book Foulis made popular—pretty, but “faded.

A collection of Goldoni’s previously written plays.

A type specimen book showcasing the typefaces available from the Brussels-based foundry of Mathias Rosart.

Contains Latin translations of Psalms 23 and 134 and a portion of the Song of Solomon, along with an original Greek ode on the Last Judgment. Considered by Dr. Charles L. Nichols, biographer and bibliographer, the best of Thomas’ books. Limited scans available.

A chronological directory of Parisian booksellers and printer-booksellers from 1470 to 1789.

An oration that commemorates the funeral rites for King Charles III of Spain held in the papal chapel and a good specimen of Bodoni’s earlier taste.

A satirical and often bawdy epic poem by Voltaire.