The Origin and Progress of Letters. An Essay in two parts, the first shewing when, and by whom letters were invented : the formation of the alphabets of various nations : their manner of writing, on what materials, and with what instruments men have written in different ages to the present time : wherein is considered the great utility of this art with regard to mankind : the second part consists of a compendious account of the most celebrated English penmen, with the titles and characters of the books they have published both from the rolling and letter press : interspersed with many interesting particulars by way of notes throughout the first part : and the second is a new species of biography never attempted before in English : the whole

Massey, W.

Published by Printed for J. Johnson, London, 1763

About this Item

First edition. iv, 160, [8]; [4], 175, [1, ad]pp. 8vo. The second part of this curious book, treating of calligraphy, contains particulars not elsewhere recorded of the lives of celebrated English penmen. "It is to William Massey that we owe a very great deal of our knowledge of the English writing-masters. It is the first and only book that deals with English writing-masters and their works. it is surprisingly complete and accurate." Heal. Heal, , The English Writing-Masters. p. 73 Sheep repaired with two pieces of straight grain morocco laid down iv, 160, [8]; [4], 175, [1, ad]pp. 8vo.

Seller Inventory # 303215

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Origin and Progress of Letters. An Essay in two parts, the first shewing when, and by whom letters were invented : the formation of the alphabets of various nations : their manner of writing, on what materials, and with what instruments men have written in different ages to the present time : wherein is considered the great utility of this art with regard to mankind : the second part consists of a compendious account of the most celebrated English penmen, with the titles and characters of ...
• Publisher: Printed for J. Johnson, London
• Publication Date: 1763
• Edition: First edition.