Description: A legendary piece of California printing history. This 1969 broadside, created by Jane Bissell Grabhorn, is the most visually striking and sought-after of the "birthday greetings" produced within the Grabhorn/Colt Press circle.
This broadside captures the irreverent, legendary wit of the Grabhorn family. It features a whimsical, large-scale comparison in emerald green of the "Great Printer" Robert (Bobby) Grabhorn:
Age 9: Depicted as an innocent child.
Age 69: Depicted as a "giant snarling monster."
The Context: Printed as a private tribute for friends and associates on May 17, 1969, this piece serves as a rare look at the humor and internal culture of America’s most famous 20th-century private press.
Three-Color Letterpress: Expertly printed in Black, Red, and Emerald Green.
Premium Materials: Printed on heavy cream stock with the T. Edmunds watermark.
Dimensions: A large-format 17.75" x 9.75", designed for archival framing and display.
Documented in the Colt Press / Grabhorn family archives, but with no WorldCat entry or auction records found. This is a true "private circulation" survivor.
Condition: Very Good. Strong letterpress impressions and clean margins. Toning is even and honest for a 55-year-old document. No tears or losses.