Johann and Wendelin of Speyer

The brothers Johann and Wendelin of Speyer (also known as de Speier and by their Italian names of Giovanni and Vendelino da Spira) were German printers in Venice from 1468 to 1477. They were among the first of those who came to Italy from Mainz, after 1462, to introduce printing. Knowledge of their lives is scanty. They came originally from Speyer. Early in 1460-61 Johann appears in Mainz as a goldsmith. In 1468, with his wife, children, and brother Wendelin, he set out for Italy, settling in Venice.

Johann and Wendelin of Speyer

The brothers Johann and Wendelin of Speyer (also known as de Speier and by their Italian names of Giovanni and Vendelino da Spira) were German printers in Venice from 1468 to 1477. They were among the first of those who came to Italy from Mainz, after 1462, to introduce printing. Knowledge of their lives is scanty. They came originally from Speyer. Early in 1460-61 Johann appears in Mainz as a goldsmith. In 1468, with his wife, children, and brother Wendelin, he set out for Italy, settling in Venice.