How to identify a first printing
- 1979-present: a first/only edition is identified by the COLOPHON limitation statement; the press of Nicolas and Frances McDowall. The colophon records the limitation (editions are typically a few hundred copies or fewer), the types, the paper, the artist or illustrator, and the date; the copy number is hand-inscribed. There is no number line or printed 'First Edition' wording.
- Many titles were issued in a standard numbered edition plus a smaller special state (an extra suite of prints, signed by the artist, or a deluxe binding); the colophon and any 'special copies' note distinguish them.
- Identify by the Old Stile Press imprint; the artist collaboration (wood engraving, wood block, linocut) is named in the colophon, and all printing is letterpress with leaf and block printing.
Notable points & cautions
- Strongly image-led press; artist collaborations are central and named in colophons.
- Watch for signed special states versus the ordinary numbered edition.
- The press documents its own output through checklists and bibliographies recording points and limitations.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Old Stile Press book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1979-present: a first/only edition is identified by the COLOPHON limitation statement; the press of Nicolas and Frances McDowall. The colophon records the limitation (editions are typically a few hundred copies or fewer), the types, the paper, the artist or illustrator, and the date; the copy number is hand-inscribed. There is no number line or printed 'First Edition' wording. Many titles were issued in a standard numbered edition plus a smaller special state (an extra suite of prints, signed by the artist, or a deluxe binding); the colophon and any 'special copies' note distinguish them.
Does Old Stile Press use a number line?
Many titles were issued in a standard numbered edition plus a smaller special state (an extra suite of prints, signed by the artist, or a deluxe binding); the colophon and any 'special copies' note distinguish them.
Is a book-club edition a Old Stile Press first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Strongly image-led press; artist collaborations are central and named in colophons.
What era does this cover?
This covers Old Stile Press (1979-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.