Ein ney Furmbüchlein, Page 4, verso 1520 - 1530

This page from Johann Schönsperger the Younger’s "Ein ney Furmbüchlein" (A New Model Book) exemplifies the beauty of early 16th-century letterforms. The printed text is laid out in a grid pattern with gothic script in three lines that read “was ir / wollt / wders,” (What you / want / again). Schönsperger, who was active from 1520-1530, was known for his innovative and decorative designs that helped set the standard for German calligraphy in the Renaissance. This particular page displays an example of Schönsperger’s talent for creating beautiful and functional letters for practical use.