- New York and London : G.P. Putnam's Sons 1896
- 8vo.
- original cloth, top edges gilt.
- xviii, 459, (5) pages.
- Order Nr. 96175
- Price: $ 25.00

German translation of this work, first published in 1972. Twenty-four contributions or chapters by 24 scholars and experts: P. Culot, K. Gardner, A. Gaur, R. McLean, H.D.L. Vervliet et al., with 264 illustrations, color or black-and-white. In four sections: early history of books and writing, books in the orient, western manuscript books, and the printed western book (beginning with block books). Much attention is paid to illumination and illustration, with due notice of binding. A useful general work, particularly for the history of books before printing. Bibliographies at ends of chapters, list of illustrations at end. Shaken, covers almost detached from block at back hinge. Jacket lightly chipped at top and bottom edges. Slipcase somewhat soiled, lightly worn, bumped on three of the back corners.