first edition Original blue paper wrappers.
[1821] · [Reading]
by Egelmann, Carl Friedrich - ILLUSTRATED WRITING MANUAL
[Reading]: [Egelmann], [1821]. First Edition.. Original blue paper wrappers.. Very good, with some overall age toning; last three leaves with a partial tide mark;backstrip with early, stitched, paper reinforcement.. Oblong 8vo. 12 leaves of engraved plates on thick paper; some sheets have animals or different script examples.
During the 18th century Mennonite schoolmasters in rural areas would often convey pious wisdom and the technique of forming German letters to their students by presenting their best pupils with beautiful calligraphy and decorated religious texts known as Vorschriften. Egelmann was a Reading schoolmaster and engraver. He issued this handsomely engraved booklet made up of Vorschriften for use by students as a writing manual. It contains numerous examples of different calligraphic styles accompanied by renderings of animals, scenes, and an allegorical representation in a distinctly 'primitive' style. In 1984 the Library Company of Philadelphia organized an exhibition of German life in the Philadelphia region during the 18th and 19th century. Egelmann's booklet was exhibited. The catalog for the exhibit makes passing reference to four editions between 1820 and 1831 (Nash cites only three). A superb example of early American provincial engraving and book making as well as childhood education. Nash, #134; Arndt #2522 citing an [1820?] edition (#2469) with one location, but in fact most likely 1825-'26. (Inventory #: 23098)
During the 18th century Mennonite schoolmasters in rural areas would often convey pious wisdom and the technique of forming German letters to their students by presenting their best pupils with beautiful calligraphy and decorated religious texts known as Vorschriften. Egelmann was a Reading schoolmaster and engraver. He issued this handsomely engraved booklet made up of Vorschriften for use by students as a writing manual. It contains numerous examples of different calligraphic styles accompanied by renderings of animals, scenes, and an allegorical representation in a distinctly 'primitive' style. In 1984 the Library Company of Philadelphia organized an exhibition of German life in the Philadelphia region during the 18th and 19th century. Egelmann's booklet was exhibited. The catalog for the exhibit makes passing reference to four editions between 1820 and 1831 (Nash cites only three). A superb example of early American provincial engraving and book making as well as childhood education. Nash, #134; Arndt #2522 citing an [1820?] edition (#2469) with one location, but in fact most likely 1825-'26. (Inventory #: 23098)