Perhaps, after three years in the preparation, this is destined to be the last major letterpress type-specimen book. The project to produce this work started in summer 2008 as a collaboration between the Munich Design School and the letterpress printshop Fliegenkopf. The ambitious goal was to create a specimen of the approximately 170 different typefaces held by the printshop. Upwards of 100 students assisted in producing an inventory of the collection, and in designing, setting and printing the finished work. Many lead and wood types - known and nameless ones - had been collected since the printshop was founded and much research was undertaken to find missing names, designers, foundries and years of origin. For the wording of the samples the creators decided to use text material related to Dadism and concrete poetry as well as old and forgotten German words so that the typfaces are displayed not only to provide an indication of their sources, but also to offer a pleasurable read that represents the literature and vocabulary of the letterpress era.

 * The price is approximate depending on the €uro – Sterling exchange rate but I have estimated slightly on the high side so, should you be tempted, it may be a few quid less; certainly before April 1 when it goes up €50!