The longer I stare at it, the more familiar it becomes, but I can’t place it, and think it’s because I’ve been staring at it for so long it’s become familiar.

Using my slim GIMP skills, I put your image into the editing software and flipped it horizontally, then replaced the type face with the vermillion colour sampled from the recessed spaces to get an idea of what the pressed image would look like. Then I dropped it into Google Images and got… nothing.

Well, I got a bunch of corporate logos and that’s what your type reminded me of anyway. It looks like a logo or a colophon. The image is cheerful, suggesting humor. The crossbar of the “F” has hooked the devil’s mouth like a fish hook, suggesting he get his come-uppance in the end. The “0″ I originally thought represented a halo, but it doesn’t look like it.

Paul

A block of type is appropriate for Faust: he was an educated man, and he was a product of the rise of literacy in Europe and a symbol of the threat of an educated middle class to the status quo. Faust sought knowledge some thought should be left to God.

Additionally, many confuse Faust with Johan Fust (Family name later became Faust), a partner of mister moveable type himself, Johannes Gutenberg.

You're very welcome. Perhaps someone will recognize it, and let us know something about it. How did you come across it?

Paul