Johann Froben Collection

Woodcut from 1518 third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535
5615729 Woodcut from 1518 third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) published in Basel showing the author conversing with the protagonist Raphael Hythloday about the ideal society he

Utopiensium Alphabetum (Utopian Alphabet) from the 1518 third edition of
5615730 Utopiensium Alphabetum (Utopian Alphabet) from the 1518 third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516

Printers mark of Johann Frobens (c. 1460 -1527) showing two hands holding
5615734 Printers mark of Johann Frobens (c.1460 -1527) showing two hands holding the caduceus from the 1518 third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516

Title page from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia
5615735 Title page from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516. Woodcut by Hans Holbein the Younger (c.1497-1543)

Illuminated "N"from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia
5615733 Illuminated " N" from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516

Illuminated "V"from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia
5615732 Illuminated " V" from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516

Illuminated "O"from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia
5615731 Illuminated " O" from the 1518 Basel third edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535) first published in 1516

Map of the New Island of Utopia from a 1518 edition of Utopia
5615727 Map of the New Island of Utopia from a 1518 edition of Utopia by Sir Thomas More (1478-1535), first published in 1516. Woodcut by Ambrosius Holbein (c. 1494-c)

Impresis Johann Froben c. 1523 tempera unprimed canvas
Impresis of Johann Froben, c. 1523, tempera on unprimed canvas (handkerchief painting), 44 x 31 cm, unmarked. On both sides of the staff:: IOAN. FROB. Hans Holbein d. J

Portrait Johann Froben German scholar printer
Portrait of Johann Froben, The German scholar, printer and publisher Johann Froben (Johannes Frobenius). He wears a coat with a fur collar, historical person (FROBENIUS, JOHANN), Johann Froben

Portrait of Johann Froben, Lambert Visscher, Johannes de Ram, 1658 - 1693

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Johann Froben: A Renaissance Scholar and Printer Extraordinaire Johann Froben, a German scholar and printer, left an indelible mark on the world of literature during the Renaissance. His contributions to the printing industry revolutionized book production and dissemination of knowledge. In 1518, Froben published the third edition of Sir Thomas More's Utopia, a groundbreaking work that challenged societal norms. The woodcut from this edition showcased intricate details, capturing the essence of More's utopian vision. Froben's printers mark depicted two hands holding each other firmly—a symbol of unity and collaboration. This emblem reflected his commitment to excellence in craftsmanship and his dedication to fostering intellectual exchange through printed materials. The title page from the same 1518 Basel edition displayed elegant typography, showcasing Froben's meticulous attention to detail. Illuminated letters "N, " "V, " and "O" adorned subsequent pages with their vibrant colors, adding visual appeal to Utopia's text. One particularly notable feature was the map of the New Island of Utopia included in this edition. It provided readers with a visual representation of More's imaginary land—a testament to Froben's innovative approach in enhancing readers' understanding through illustrations. Beyond his printing endeavors, Johann Froben himself became an iconic figure captured by artists throughout history. Lambert Visscher immortalized him in a portrait dating back to 1658-1693—an image that preserves his scholarly presence for generations to come. Froben’s legacy endures as he continues inspiring scholars and printers alike with his unwavering commitment to disseminating knowledge through beautifully crafted books. His impact on literature remains imprinted not only within Utopia but also within every page he ever printed—each one bearing witness to his profound influence on human progress.