Colophons

Definitions

[2] *a publisher's emblem or imprint, especially one on the title page or spine of a book.

• a statement at the end of a book, typically with a printer's emblem, giving information about its authorship and printing.
• The term comes from the 17th-century late Latin derivative of kolophōn, ‘summit or finishing touch,’ indicating the presence of a symbol of completion.

[3] Merriam-Webster's definition of Colophons

• An inscription at the end of a book or manuscript, usually with facts about its production
• an identifying mark used by a printer or a publisher

Origin and Features

[4] Originating from early manuscripts and printed texts, colophons were often incredibly detailed, containing context of their scribes, the areas the piece was produced in, and the reason behind the creation of the piece. Over time, the idea has gained significant historical importance, as its usage has evolved into a standardized practice within the publishing industry, allowing for clarity and contributions to be recognized.

Usually positioned at the conclusion of a book and are differentiated from the main text by utilizing different fonts or formatting, some even including symbols or designs.

Examples

[5]

• Book Title: “The Art of Storytelling: A Guide to Creative Writing”
• Colophon Contents:
• Publisher: Artisan Books
• Printer: Print Masters Ltd.
• Typesetter: TypoGraph Design Studio
• Paper: Recycled matte paper
• Typeface: Adobe Garamond
• Printing Method: Offset lithography
• Date of Publication: June 15, 2024

The Degrees of Recitation of the Longevity Ritual of the Nine Goddesses (tib . Tshe chog lha dgu ma'i ngag 'don gyi rim pa bzhugs ), a text among those preserved in the Tibetan studies library of the Collège de France, with a colophon crediting how it was likely produced in Chinese territory.[1]