This work investigates the evolution and identification of Latin scripts through a comprehensive survey of manuscripts produced before the ninth century. E. A. Lowe, a preeminent paleographer, compiled this monumental reference to provide a standardized framework for dating and localizing early medieval texts. By analyzing the physical characteristics of handwriting, the author establishes a rigorous methodology for scholars to classify and interpret the development of Latin writing systems across various European scriptoria.

Scholars and historians regard this multi-volume set as the definitive reference for the study of early Latin paleography. The text is noted for its extreme academic density and remains a standard tool for researchers working with primary source medieval documents.