How did title pages develop in early printed books?

The development of the title page in early printed books was a gradual evolution that emerged from the colophon, an inscription traditionally placed at the end of a manuscript or book to record publication details.12

In the early days of printing, printers added blank paper at the front of a book to protect the text, and they often included identifying marks or brief statements at the rear. By about 1480, printers began transferring some of the content previously found in the colophon—such as the printer's name, location, and date—to the blank front cover page, effectively creating the title page.21

Key milestones in this development include:
* 1463: The first known use of a title page, which functioned more like a half title, appeared on a papal bull printed by Peter Schöffer.1
* 1476: The first full title page was used by Erhard Ratdolt for an astronomical and astrological calendar.1

By the end of the 15th century, the title page was well established, serving both as a protective cover and a space for advertising the work.1