Wm. H. Page's Specimens of Chromatic Wood Type, Borders, Etc.: A Stunning Sourcebook of Decorative Designs & Colour Typography

Having procured a cult-like following in the modern field of design, this extraordinary volume is brimming with over 100 intricate typeface examples, all skilfully produced and vibrantly coloured.

In the world of typography, few titles hold higher esteem than William H. Page's Specimens of Chromatic Wood-Type (1874). First produced in 1874, the book was intended as a catalogue to showcase the capabilities of Page's world-renowned wood type foundry, William Page & Company, to sell the pieces of type to other printers. The elaborate fonts boast up to seven colours, each with labyrinthine borders and bold outlines.

In this new facsimile edition, we have taken meticulous steps to preserve the original colour plates of the iconic volume, ensuring that the charm of Page's typographical masterpiece remains true to the original, first printed over 175 years ago. This prolific volume showcases the artistic magic that lies at the heart of letterpress printing in a rich celebration of a once-forgotten craft.

© 2023 Old Hand Books (Ebook): 9781528798730

Release date

Ebook: 30 May 2023