Mander Brothers

• Advertisement for Mander's Poster Inks
• Printed with Mander Brothers' Lithographic Inks
• By Hudson & Son, Lithographers, Birmingham
• 1896
• 191 x 254mm (7½ x 10½in)
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A richly coloured 1896 advertisement for Mander’s Poster Inks—specifically their acclaimed lithographic inks—offers a vibrant testament to the company’s storied history and innovation.

The origins of Mander Brothers date back to 1773, when Benjamin and John Mander established their enterprise in the then-small town of Wolverhampton. Specialising in the production of pigments for paints and lacquers, their business quickly gained a reputation for quality and reliability.

Throughout the 19th century, Mander Brothers thrived, evolving into one of the British Empire's foremost manufacturers of varnishes, paints, and eventually, premium printing inks. Their lithographic inks, celebrated for their rich colour and consistency, became indispensable to the burgeoning world of graphic arts and commercial printing.

The company’s dedication to excellence extended beyond their products to their marketing. Their striking and expertly crafted advertisements graced the pages of The British Printer, a prestigious journal of the graphic arts. These ads not only highlighted the superb quality of Mander’s inks but also showcased the artistry and precision achievable with their products, capturing the attention of printers and artists alike.

This 1896 advertisement is more than a promotional piece—it is a vivid slice of printing history, reflecting the intersection of industrial ingenuity and the flourishing aesthetic standards of late Victorian design.