[Illustration]
Paper, for the purpose of writing or printing, was first manufactured in
this country, according to Anderson, about the year 1598, in the reign
of Elizabeth. There is reason, however, to believe, that its manufacture
existed here previous to that time. John Tate is recorded to have had a
paper-mill at Hertford, in the reign of Henry VII. and the first book
printed on English paper, came out in 1495 or 6. It was entitled
"Bartholomeus de proprietatibus rerum," and was printed on paper made by
John Tate, jun.
The different paper marks are objects of some curiosity. Probably they
gave the names to the different sorts, many of which names are retained,
though the original marks of distinction have been relinquished. _Post_
paper originally bore the wire mark of a postman's horn, as appears on
specimens of paper of the date 1679. The fleur de lis was the peculiar
mark of demy, most likely originating in France. The open _hand_ is a
very ancient mark, giving name to a sort, which though still in use, is
considerably altered in size and texture.
_Fool's-Cap_--the name is still continued though the original design of
a fool's cap is relinquished.
_Pot Paper._--There were various designs of pots or drinking vessels;
this paper retains its proportions and size according to early
specimens, but the mark is exchanged for that of the arms of England.
The original manufacturer in this country, John Tate, marked his paper
with a star of eight points, within a double circle. The device of John
Tate, jun. was a wheel; his paper is remarkably fine and good.
Various other paper marks were in use, adopted most likely at the will
or caprice of the manufacturer. Thus we have the unicorn and other
non-descript quadrupeds, the bunch of grapes, serpent, and ox'head
surmounted by a star, a great favourite; the cross, crown, globe,
initials of manufacturers' names; and, at the conclusion of the 17th
century and commencement of the last, arms appear in escutcheons with
supporters.
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