1938; full title: "Gutenberg and the invention of printing: an anniversary review, with special reference to the Gutenberg Bible"; signed by "Laurence E. Tomlinson, Library of Congress" inside front; Judd & Detweiler publishers; deckled cut design of page edges; very good condition of pages; front board with very nice brass embossed image of Johanne Gutenberg;  library reference inked on spine "920 G"; slipcase good condition with minor soiling.
 
Gutenberg -
Johann Gutenberg was born Johann Gensfleisch zur Laden, in Mainz. He was the third child of Freile zum Gensfleisch and his second wife, Else Wirick zum Gutenberg, whose name Johann adopted. Nothing is known of Gutenberg's studies or apprenticeship except that he learned the trade of a goldsmith while living in Mainz. About 1428 his family was exiled as a result of a revolt of the craftsmen against the noble class ruling the town, and in 1430 Gutenberg established himself in Strassburg, where he remained until 1444.
 
Gutenberg's experiments in printing began during his years in Strassburg. He was already familiar with the techniques of xylography, the process used to make books and other printed matter in Europe since the 14th century, and in the Far East much earlier. Then came the transition from xylography to typography, infinitely more practical for text printing since, instead of reproduction by means of wood carving, a small separate block (type) was used for each sign or character. The idea of movable type may have occurred to many people independently; Gutenberg may have worked in this field about 1436.