Theodore Low De Vinne

author

Theodore Low De Vinne

1828–1914

A towering figure in American printing, this master printer helped raise commercial printing to a new standard while also writing influential books on typography and bookmaking. His work connected the craft of the press with the history and design of the printed page.

1 Audiobook

The Invention of Printing. A Collection of Facts and Opinions, Descriptive of Early Prints and Playing Cards, the Block-Books of the Fifteenth Century, the Legend of Lourens Janszoon Coster, of Haarlem, and the Work of John Gutenberg and His Associates

The Invention of Printing. A Collection of Facts and Opinions, Descriptive of Early Prints and Playing Cards, the Block-Books of the Fifteenth Century, the Legend of Lourens Janszoon Coster, of Haarlem, and the Work of John Gutenberg and His Associates

by Theodore Low De Vinne

About the author

Born in Stamford, Connecticut, on December 25, 1828, Theodore Low De Vinne became one of the most respected printers in the United States. He moved to New York City in 1849 to work for printer Francis Hart, later became a partner, and eventually led the firm that became known as the De Vinne Press.

Alongside his success as a printer, he built a lasting reputation as a writer and historian of typography. Reference works describe him as a leading commercial printer of his time, and he is especially remembered for books on the history and practice of printing, including works that helped explain typography to both professionals and general readers.

De Vinne died in New York on February 16, 1914, but his influence lasted well beyond his lifetime. He is still remembered for bringing high standards, careful workmanship, and serious scholarship to American printing.