The Art & Practice of Typography: A Manual of American Printing, Including a Brief History Up to the Twentieth Century, with Reproductions of the Work of Early Masters of the Craft, and a Practical Discussion and an Extensive Demonstration of the Modern Use of Type-Faces and Methods of Arrangement

A comprehensive manual on American printing written in the early 20th century. This work explores the evolution of typography, detailing its historical development and the contemporary practices within the field. The book serves as both a reference for typographers and an educational tool for those interested in the art and science of type design and layout. At the start of the book, the author provides a preface discussing the task of revising the previous edition of the work and the challenges faced during its creation, particularly as the author began the rewrite before America entered World War I. Gress outlines the extensive scope of the book, which includes historical references, examples of typographic works, and practical advice for modern typography. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the historical context and the current methods of typography, suggesting that the reader first study the fundamentals of type before applying them to contemporary designs. The initial chapters focus on the origins of typography and the transition from handwritten manuscripts to printed texts, illustrating how the art of type has evolved over centuries.