Imprint or colophon

A colophon (from the Greek Kolophon meaning 'summit' or 'finishing stroke') is an inscription or device placed at the end of a book, usually on the verso (the back) of the last leaf, giving the printer's name, the date and his place of business. Colophons were used by printers to show that the work had been carried out by a reputable man and in a reputable fashion. This one says 'Imprinted at London, in Paules churchyarde at the sygne of the Lambe by Abraham Wele'. The original publication associated with this colophon has been lost, but Abraham Vele is known to have published 'at the sign of the lamb' in St Paul's Churchyard until 1586.