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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Bible Printed by Fust and Schoeffer

Item 16A

Bible Printed by Fust and Schoeffer

1462
Incunabula
First Use of Printer’s Mark

When Johannes Gutenberg completed his first printed Bible in the mid-1450s, he did so with financial support from Johann Fust and technical assistance from apprentice Peter Schoeffer. As still happens in start-up business ventures, their relationships became strained, and eventually Fust sued Gutenberg for the return of his money. Fust was successful in court, and Gutenberg was ordered to hand over the money and his printing equipment. Fust and Schoeffer then partnered to create their own printing operation, which became one of the most successful at that time. They signed their publications with a mark: two linked shields hanging on a branch printed in red. Similar to a modern-day logo, this was the first printer’s mark ever used.

An open medieval manuscript with two columns of Latin text on each page. Initial letters are elaborately decorated in red. The margins feature intricate, delicate floral and vine illustrations. The pages have an aged, yellowish tinge, and the edges of the book show signs of wear.
A medieval book with a dark brown leather cover, embossed with intricate geometric patterns and circular medallions. The cover features a repeating diamond motif and is secured with a single brass clasp on the right edge. The spine shows signs of wear and features raised bands.
An open old book showing two pages filled with Latin text in black ink and red accents. The text is broken into columns and paragraphs, with red drop caps and decorations throughout. The right page corner is marked with the numbers
Close-up of an ancient manuscript page featuring text written in Latin. The script is in black ink with significant portions of red ink used for emphasis and decorative initial letters. The paper appears aged with a yellowish hue, adding to the historic feel of the document.

What will you discover next?

English Gothic Bible
Detail from a medieval manuscript page featuring Latin text bordered by ornate decorations. The focus is on one of three roundels depicting intricate, hand-painted religious figures and scenes on a blue and gold backdrop. The illumination is detailed with gold leaf accents.

A manuscript Bible?

Go To Item 15B

Tibetan Buddhist Scroll
A richly detailed monochrome illustration on aged parchment depicts a central, seated Buddha surrounded by numerous disciples and ornate cloud motifs. The image features intricate line work and varied postures of the figures, giving a sense of reverence and spirituality.

Asian printing older than Gutenberg?

Go To Item 6D

Return to Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Plan your visit
Rose Exhibition Hall