Collection of approximately 2400 leaves tracing the art of printing and book illustration in Europe from circa 1450 to 1598, compiled by Fred Werther, of Baltimore. Approximately 550 different editions are represented; many editions are represented by multiple leaves. Most leaves are mounted on stiff paper mats of uniform size. A brief identifying description and reference number is provided on each mat. The reference numbers correspond to entries in a hand-written catalog, in four volumes, presumably compiled by Werther. The catalog also includes excerpts of printed descriptions.

The first 50 years of printing, circa 1450-1500, are covered by approximately 1000 leaves from 250 editions, representing the output of 130 printers active in 60 localities and 11 countries. It includes most major printers and illustrators of the period, including Gutenberg's 42-line Bible and works from the press of Aldus Manutius.

The 16th-century material includes approximately 1400 leaves from over 300 editions, representing the output of about 155 printers active in 50 localities in 10 countries. Most important illustrators of the period are represented, from Dürer to Boissard.

Bible > Selections.

Printing > History > Europe.

Illustration of books > Europe.

Illustrated books > Europe.

Incunabula > Europe.

Early printed books > Europe.

Incunabula.

Woodcuts - 1450-1600.

Woodcuts - Hand-colored - 1450-1600.

Block books.

Fragments (object portions)

Detached leaves.

Cuttings (partial works)