Talbot Baines Reed
A History of the Old English Letter Foundries
with Notes, Historical and Bibliographical, on the Rise and Progress of English Typography.
"A History of the Old English Letter Foundries" by Talbot Baines Reed is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the evolution of letter founding in England, detailing its origins, major figures, and the various techniques employed in the craft of typography. The narrative emphasizes the significance of these developments to the broader field of English printing, providing both historical context and bibliographical notes on the various contributors to this essential art. The opening of the book sets the stage for a thorough examination of the intricacies of typography and letter founding, beginning with a preface that reflects on the advancements in the craft compared to the past. Reed highlights the obscurity surrounding the earliest years of English letter founding, expressing a mission to document the fragmented history of this art form. He references previous works, like Edward Rowe Mores' dissertation, while introducing his own research that merges historical anecdotes with bibliographical detail. This section establishes the foundation of the discussion, focusing on early typographical practices and the essential contributions of notable founders, thereby inviting readers into a rich exploration of typographical heritage.