Aldine

al'din, a name given to editions of classics issued by Aldus and his descendants in Venice between 1490 and 1597. The Aldine printing office existed for 107 years. In addition to Greek and Roman classics, the works of Dante, Petrarch, and Boccacio came from the Aldine press,--in all 908 different works. An "Aldine" is prized for the accuracy of the text, and for its beautiful printing and binding. Genuine copies bring fabulous prices. To an engraver in the employ of the house we owe the graceful form of type known as Italics. The elder Aldus introduced the custom of printing a few copies of each edition on fine paper. The Aldine trademark is an anchor entwined by a dolphin. It appeared for the first time in 1502. The anchor was intended to symbolize tenacity of purpose; the dolphin swiftness of execution. The entire trademark was an emblem of speed with caution. Aldus held that one ought "to make haste slowly." To quote his own words: "I can surely affirm that I have as my constant companions the dolphin and the anchor. I have accomplished much by holding fast, and much by pressing on."