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From the 1600's by a woman publisher... Joanna Brome...
From the 1600's by a woman publisher... Joanna Brome...
Item # 716076 THE OBSERVATOR, London, England, Feb. 20, 1681
* Rare publication w/ Woman publisher
* Hold something from the 17th century in your hands
A dialogue newspaper founded by Sir Roger L'Estrange, a Tory pamphleteer, as a vehicle for attacking dissenters and Whigs. This newspaper has the old style type making it great for framing, particularly with the over 340 year-old date clearly visible in the dateline.
The most intriguing aspect of this issue is the imprint at the bottom of the back page: "London, Printed for Joanna Brome, at the Gun in S. Paul's Church-yard."
This is one of the earliest periodicals we have offered printed by a woman.
Complete as a single sheet issue, 8 by 13 inches, ample margins, printed on high-quality, rag paper. Great condition.
AI notes: Joanna Brome was a pioneering 17th-century English publisher who took over her husband Henry Brome’s printing business after his death in 1681. Operating from St. Paul's Churchyard in London, she became the sole printer of The Observator, a politically charged newspaper written by Sir Roger L’Estrange that defended the monarchy and attacked Whig and dissenting views. Her role as one of the earliest known female newspaper publishers in England was notable, especially in a male-dominated trade. Despite facing legal challenges due to the controversial content she printed, Brome continued her work until her death in 1684, leaving a significant legacy in both political journalism and women’s history in publishing.
Category: British
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