John Sturt, “Videritis”, 1698

John Sturt (1658-1730)

“Videritis,” 1698

Please note that the large, highly ornate initial letter “V”—the first letter of “Videritis” (meaning “you will see”)—is a decorative cadel (or drop cap) in a dense, blackletter style. This flourish likely indicates that a student of handwriting was about to explore letter-forms that would enhance a scribe’s dexterity with a quill.

Technical Details & Condition:

Original engraving on watermarked laid paper with full margins as issued. This engraving is based on a design by John Ayres (fl. 1680–1700) and is an illustration in Ayres’ “A Tutor to Penmanship,” a two-part copybook published in London in 1698, with a dedication to King William III. 

The designs in the copybook were crafted for Ayres’ instruction in the art of fine penmanship, conducted at “Hand and Pen” near St. Paul’s Churchyard in London. 

This plate and the publication can be viewed online at: https://archive.org/details/bim_early-english-books-1641-1700_a-tutor-to-penmanship_ayres-john_1698/page/n47/mode/2up.

The impression is strong and well-printed. The sheet has surface marks but remains in good condition, with no tears, holes, folds, or significant stains.

Dimensions: 

• Sheet: 23.5 x 35.3 cm
• Platemark: 19.9 x 32.1 cm

Price & Shipping:

AU$242 (approximately US$171.12 / €148.78 / £128.60), including worldwide express shipping. Import duties and taxes (if any) are the buyer’s responsibility.

If you are interested in acquiring this exceptionally rare and remarkable example of 17th-century engraved penmanship, please contact me at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.