The first wooden letters were craft-produced in the 18th century. Their use spread with the expansion of commercial advertising in the 1820s; production was mechanised and new types with increased visibility were created. In addition to dated products, series of surprisingly 'modern' types were developed that could be compared with those generated by the 'new' digital typography. The re-publication of this catalogue demonstrates that letters, like buildings, incarnate the spirit of an age, while preserving a timeless quality that constitutes a lasting source of inspiration.