WORKSHOPS
& DEMOS
Handpainted Initials and Early Printing
At Lost Letters, I collaborate with Prelo Prints to bring the history of bookmaking alive through workshops, live demonstrations, and talks. Together, we work from the principle that materials and techniques should remain true to the historical period we represent.
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My colleague Jorge Lar from Prelo Prints demonstrates the early printing process using a reconstructed 15th-century printing press, as well as his work with woodcuts and letterpress. I present medieval painting materials and techniques by creating decorative initials on parchment and handmade paper.
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Throughout history, hand-painted initials have played a significant role in manuscripts, serving both as decorative elements and as a means to highlight the text's meaning. The invention of the printing press revolutionised book production in the 15th century, but this tradition did not disappear overnight. Many printed books, especially luxury or special editions, retained handmade features such as painted initials well into the 17th century. This reflected not only an aesthetic preference but also a continued appreciation for the artistic and symbolic value of craftsmanship.
The fact that the people behind Prelo Prints and Lost Letters are joining forces for the project ‘Historical Book Craftsmanship’ is the best news in this field I’ve heard in a long time.
Both are outstanding artisans with deep experience in their fields, and their results – in both early printing techniques and medieval calligraphy – are nearly unparalleled. On top of that, they are exceptionally skilled and captivating communicators. I have the highest expectations for this project.
Kåre Johannessen l Author and Historian
It was a truly fascinating experience to see the live workshops in action. You could feel their deep passion for the craft.
Both were highly knowledgeable and engaging communicators, and their workshops attracted great interest from both children and adults visiting the library.
Finally, Jorge Lar and Marianne Beyer were an absolute pleasure to work with.
Troels Malthe Borch l Curator, Østfyns Museer
Background & Collaboration
The collaboration behind ‘Historical Book Craftsmanship’ began in 2020 when Jorge Lar decided to reconstruct a late 15th-century printing press.
However, our shared passion for historical craft goes back many years. We have long collaborated through ‘Sankt Lukas Gildet – The Guild for Painting and Decoration’ at the Medieval Centre in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark. Here, we have immersed ourselves in medieval colours and artistic techniques in writing and painting, which now form the natural foundation for our current project.
Over the years, we have participated in historical events, workshops, and live demonstrations at churches and castles, including:
• BogForum 2025 in Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Cathedral’s Christmas Market
• Birgitta Festival at Maribo Cathedral, Denmark
• History Days at Øksnehallen in Copenhagen
• Maribo Craft Days, Denmark
• Manor House Day at Gjorslev Castle, Denmark
• Reformation Days in Nyborg, Denmark
• Workshops at Rentemestervej Library in Copenhagen