Richard Pynson

Richard Pynson (c. 1448 – 1529) was one of the first printers to set up a printing press in England. He was a native of Normandy, France, and started his printing career in London around 1490, after being apprenticed to William Caxton.

Early Life

Pynson was born in Normandy, France, around 1448. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he moved to England in his early twenties.

Career

Pynson set up his printing press in London around 1490. He was known for his high-quality work and was one of the first printers to use Roman type, a typeface that was easier to read than the Gothic script commonly used at the time. Pynson's press produced a wide range of works, including religious texts, legal manuals, and classical works.

Pynson was appointed King's Printer by Henry VII in 1508, a position he held until his death in 1529. As King's Printer, Pynson was responsible for printing all official documents and proclamations. He also printed many of the works of Erasmus, a leading figure of the Renaissance in Europe.

Legacy

Pynson's contributions to the printing industry in England were significant. He helped to standardize the use of Roman type in English printing and his high-quality work set a standard for future printers. His press also played a key role in the spread of Renaissance ideas in England through the works of Erasmus and others.

See Also

• History of printing
• William Caxton
• Erasmus