How to identify a first printing
- Hand-press letterpress limited editions, most with a printed colophon giving the limitation, the date, and Mardersteig's imprint; many hand-numbered
- Use of Mardersteig's own recut types (notably the 'Dante' type, and his revival of original Bodoni types) and fine handmade papers — typographic identity authenticates
- Colophon names the press (Officina Bodoni, Verona/Montagnola) and printing details; deluxe copies on special paper or with extra plates at lower numbers
- No number line — colophon limitation and Mardersteig imprint identify; distinguish hand-press Officina Bodoni from machine-printed Stamperia Valdonega work
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 1922 by Hans (Giovanni) Mardersteig, first at Montagnola (Switzerland), from 1927 at Verona; one of the greatest 20th-century fine presses
- Mardersteig also designed the Dante and Griffo types; printed the official complete works for Italian and German publishers
- The standard reference is the Officina Bodoni bibliography ('Officina Bodoni: An Account...' / the editions catalogue) — consult it for exact limitations
- Distinguish Officina Bodoni (hand-press, fine limited) from Stamperia Valdonega (Mardersteig family commercial press, machine-set) — different collectibility
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Giovanni (Hans) Mardersteig (founder), Stamperia Valdonega (his later commercial/machine-press arm). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Officina Bodoni book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Hand-press letterpress limited editions, most with a printed colophon giving the limitation, the date, and Mardersteig's imprint; many hand-numbered Use of Mardersteig's own recut types (notably the 'Dante' type, and his revival of original Bodoni types) and fine handmade papers — typographic identity authenticates
Does Officina Bodoni use a number line?
Use of Mardersteig's own recut types (notably the 'Dante' type, and his revival of original Bodoni types) and fine handmade papers — typographic identity authenticates
Is a book-club edition a Officina Bodoni first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 1922 by Hans (Giovanni) Mardersteig, first at Montagnola (Switzerland), from 1927 at Verona; one of the greatest 20th-century fine presses
What era does this cover?
This covers Officina Bodoni (1922–1977 (Hans Mardersteig; continued by son Martino)). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.