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#carolingian minuscule
harpist-errant · 2 years
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Still working on this one but practice is going well….
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shcherbatskya · 1 year
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all i do is wait for a someone to talk about something i know a fun fact about.
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louhearted · 1 year
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i am so fucking scared that i won’t be able to tell carolingian minuscule apart from insular minuscule, much less insular majuscule from semi uncial script. and like. college is FUCKED because that is not a fear a normal person should have. not only did they give the monkey anxiety, they gave the monkey anxiety about LETTER FORMS
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Be right back I'm doing hot guy stuff (writing in Carolingian minuscule)
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The Harley Psalter: Trinity in an almond surrounded by four angels. The Harley Psalter was made around 1020 CE in the south of England, probably in or around Canterbury, and most likely on the orders of Ælfric of Abingdon, Archbishop of Canterbury or one of his successors, Æthelnoth, and left unfinished. Written by three copywriters in Carolingian minuscule. The hand of one of the scribes has been identified with that of Eadwig Basan (Eaduuius Basan), an active copyist in the scriptorium of the Priory of Christ Church. British Library, London, in the Harley collection (Harley 603). folio 1.
[Robert Scott Horton]
* * * *
“Carl Jung, referring to the medieval concept of the daemonic, professed that ‘from the psychological point of view demons are nothing other than intruders from the unconscious, spontaneous irruptions of unconscious complexes into the continuity of the conscious process. Complexes are comparable to demons which fitfully harass our thought and actions; hence in antiquity and the Middle Ages acute neurotic disturbances were conceived as [daemonic] possession.’”
— Stephen A. Diamond, Anger, Madness, and the Daimonic: The Psychological Genesis of Violence, Evil, and Creativity [zerogate]
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whatiscalligraphy · 2 months
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Gothic Calligraphy Style: Dive into the Dark Arts
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Are you ready to explore the captivating world of Gothic calligraphy? With its dramatic and dark letterforms, Gothic Calligraphy Style, also known as Blackletter script, is an art form that exudes gothic elegance. Whether you're interested in creating event invitations, book arts, or branding, Gothic calligraphy is the perfect choice to add a touch of sophistication to your projects. Originating in the Middle Ages, Gothic calligraphy was widely used for official documents, proclamations, and scrolls. Its impact, contrast, and ornate decoration make it a distinctive style that continues to fascinate artists and calligraphy enthusiasts. Now, it's your turn to delve into the dark arts of Gothic calligraphy and unleash your creativity. Dark calligraphy is also a form of artistic writing that combines gothic aesthetics with English lettering. It is characterized by bold, intricate strokes and a mysterious, haunting vibe. Explore the world of dark calligraphy to add an enchanting touch to your designs or personal projects. Throughout this article, we will provide you with the tools, resources, and techniques to help you master the art of Gothic calligraphy. From exploring the history of Blackletter script to learning essential strokes and lettering techniques, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover the enchanting world of Gothic calligraphy. Key Takeaways: - Gothic Calligraphy Style, also known as Blackletter script, is characterized by its dramatic and dark letterforms. - Gothic calligraphy originated in the Middle Ages and was widely used for official documents and scrolls. - Tools for Gothic calligraphy include the Pilot Parallel pen, Lamy Joy fountain pen, and Brause calligraphy nibs. - Online resources, such as practice sheets and video tutorials, are available for learning and practicing Gothic calligraphy. - Mastering Gothic calligraphy involves understanding fundamental strokes, lettering techniques, and adding flourishing for decorative flair.
Exploring Blackletter Script: A Brief History
The Gothic script, also known as Blackletter calligraphy, has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was popularized during the time of Gothic architecture and was used extensively for religious texts and other manuscripts. The Gothic script evolved from Carolingian minuscule and became a standardized script for European languages. It is characterized by its vertical emphasis, ornate details, and distinct Gothic feel. Despite its initial association with the term "Gothic" as a synonym for barbaric, Gothic calligraphy has endured and continues to captivate with its formal and striking qualities. Gothic calligraphy, with its striking blackletter script, has a timeless appeal that has fascinated calligraphy enthusiasts for centuries. The intricate letterforms and ornate details of the Gothic script make it a captivating choice for those seeking to showcase a sense of Gothic elegance in their writing. Whether you're interested in exploring the historical significance of Gothic calligraphy or simply drawn to its unique aesthetic, understanding the brief history of this art form is a crucial step in mastering its techniques and unleashing your creativity. Gothic Script Characteristics Examples Vertical Emphasis Blackletter calligraphy features vertical strokes and a strong vertical emphasis, giving it a bold and prominent appearance. Ornate Details The letters of Gothic script are often adorned with elaborate flourishes, loops, and decorative elements, adding a touch of elegance and complexity. Gothic Feel The script's name, "Gothic," originated from associations with the medieval Gothic architecture, reflecting its historical roots. The history of Gothic calligraphy provides valuable insights into the origins and development of this unique script. By understanding its roots and evolution, you can better appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of Gothic lettering and apply its techniques to your own projects.
Tools for Gothic Calligraphy: Pen and Paper
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When it comes to Gothic calligraphy, having the right tools is essential to achieve precise and stunning lettering. The Pilot Parallel pen is highly recommended for its versatility and ease of use. This pen comes in different nib sizes, allowing you to create both delicate details and bold strokes. The ergonomically designed grip ensures comfort during long writing sessions, making it a favorite among calligraphers. If you prefer using a fountain pen, the Lamy Joy is an excellent choice for Gothic calligraphy. Its stub nib provides a unique writing experience, allowing for controlled line variations and adding character to your letterforms. Another dip pen option is the Brause calligraphy nibs, known for their durability and ability to produce crisp lines. If you're looking for a marker-like feel, calligraphy markers with brush tips can be used to achieve brush script styles in Gothic lettering. To complement your choice of pen, using high-quality paper is crucial for smooth and precise lettering. Consider using the HP Premium 32 paper, which provides an ideal surface for both ink and marker-based calligraphy. Its smooth texture allows for effortless pen movement, ensuring crisp and defined letterforms. Investing in good tools and paper will enhance your Gothic calligraphy experience and help you create exquisite pieces of art. Table: Comparison of Gothic Calligraphy Tools Tool Features Pilot Parallel Pen Versatile nib sizes, ergonomic grip Lamy Joy Fountain Pen Stub nib for controlled line variations Brause Calligraphy Nibs Durable and produces crisp lines Calligraphy Markers Brush tips for brush script styles HP Premium 32 Paper Smooth surface for precise lettering
Learning Gothic Calligraphy: Online Resources
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When it comes to mastering the art of Gothic calligraphy, there are abundant online resources available to help you sharpen your skills. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced calligrapher looking to refine your technique, these resources offer step-by-step tutorials, practice sheets, and inspiration to guide you on your Gothic calligraphy journey. Video Tutorials Video tutorials are a fantastic way to learn Gothic calligraphy at your own pace. Websites like YouTube and Skillshare provide a treasure trove of video lessons from experienced calligraphers who share their knowledge and techniques. “Video tutorials are like having a personal calligraphy instructor in the comfort of your own home. You can watch, pause, and rewind as many times as you need until you perfect each stroke.” Through these tutorials, you can learn everything from basic strokes to letter formation, allowing you to gradually build your proficiency in Gothic calligraphy. Whether you prefer lowercase or uppercase lettering, there are numerous video tutorials available to suit your needs. Practice Sheets For those who crave structure and guidance in their learning process, practice sheets are an invaluable resource. These printable sheets provide a systematic approach to learning Gothic calligraphy by breaking down each letter into individual strokes and guiding you through the proper technique. By repeatedly practicing with these sheets, you'll develop muscle memory and enhance your familiarity with the letterforms. This practice will help you achieve consistency and precision in your Gothic calligraphy, allowing you to create stunning pieces of art. Online Communities Connecting with fellow Gothic calligraphy enthusiasts can greatly enhance your learning experience. Online communities and forums provide a platform for calligraphers of all skill levels to share their work, ask questions, and receive constructive feedback. Engaging with these communities not only fosters a sense of camaraderie but also exposes you to a variety of styles, techniques, and inspirations. By immersing yourself in the vibrant online calligraphy community, you'll continually be motivated to improve and push the boundaries of your Gothic calligraphy.
Mastering Gothic Calligraphy: Strokes and Lettering
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To master Gothic calligraphy, you need to have a solid understanding of the fundamental strokes and lettering techniques. These elements are the building blocks of this intricate art form, allowing you to create the unique and striking letterforms that define Gothic calligraphy. By practicing and perfecting these techniques, you will be able to develop your own distinctive style and bring your Gothic lettering to life. Strokes The key to Gothic calligraphy lies in mastering the essential strokes that make up each letter. Keeping your pen at a 45-degree angle, practice creating straight vertical lines and diagonal lines. These basic strokes form the foundation of many Gothic letters and will help you achieve the desired consistency and precision in your lettering. Lettering Learning the stroke order and proportions of each letter is crucial in Gothic calligraphy. Take your time to study and practice the letterforms individually, paying attention to the details that make each letter unique. The ornate and intricate nature of Gothic calligraphy requires careful attention to the curves, loops, and flourishes that give the lettering its distinctive Gothic feel. Letter Strokes Proportions A Vertical line, diagonal line Top-heavy with a wider base N Vertical line, diagonal line, horizontal line Even proportions with a diagonal slant M Vertical line, diagonal line, horizontal line, diagonal line, vertical line Even proportions with multiple diagonal slants Remember, practice is key to mastering Gothic calligraphy. Dedicate time to honing your skills, and don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and variations within the Gothic script. As you become more comfortable with the strokes and lettering techniques, you'll be able to develop your own unique Gothic calligraphy style that truly reflects your creative vision. Continue to the next section to learn about flourishing techniques that will add flair and elegance to your Gothic calligraphy projects.
Gothic Calligraphy Flourishing: Adding Flair to Your Letters
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Gothic calligraphy flourishing is the art of adding decorative elements to your letters, elevating them to new levels of elegance and visual appeal. Flourishes can take many forms, including swoops, swirls, and intricate designs, and they can be used to embellish individual letters or entire words. By incorporating flourishing into your Gothic calligraphy, you can infuse your work with a sense of flair and creativity that will captivate viewers. When it comes to flourishing, experimentation is key. Take your pen and let your imagination run wild as you explore different shapes and patterns. You can start by practicing basic flourishes, such as loops and loops, and gradually progress to more complex designs. As you gain confidence and proficiency, you can begin incorporating flourishing into your lettering, creating a harmonious balance between the boldness of the Gothic script and the delicate intricacies of the flourishes. Flourishing is not only about aesthetics; it also adds a sense of movement and flow to your calligraphy. The curves and lines of the flourishes create a dynamic contrast to the straight and angular Gothic letterforms, giving your work a captivating sense of energy. Whether you're working on a formal invitation, a personal project, or simply practicing your skills, adding flourishing to your Gothic calligraphy will take your lettering to the next level. Examples of Gothic Calligraphy Flourishes "Flourishing is the icing on the cake of Gothic calligraphy. It adds that extra touch of elegance and artistry to your letters, making them truly stand out. Don't be afraid to experiment and explore different styles of flourishing. Let your creativity flow and watch as your Gothic calligraphy flourishes into something truly remarkable." - Calligraphy Master Flourish Style Description Swirls Curved lines that wrap around the letters, adding a sense of movement and fluidity. Vine-like Flourishes that resemble intertwined vines, evoking a sense of nature and growth. Banners Flourishes that mimic the shape of banners, adding a regal touch to your calligraphy. Heart-shaped Flourishes that form heart-shaped designs, bringing a romantic and whimsical feel to your letters.
Gothic Calligraphy Projects: Calligrams and Creative Applications
Gothic calligraphy offers a wide range of creative applications and projects. One such project is creating calligrams, which involve arranging letters or strokes to form visual images. Calligrams can be a fun and unique way to express your creativity and showcase the versatility of the Gothic script. With Gothic calligraphy's bold and distinctive lettering, it can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any project. It is often used in branding, book arts, event invitations, and signage. Whether you're looking to create a striking logo or add a touch of Gothic elegance to your wedding invitations, Gothic calligraphy can bring a unique flair to your projects. Here are a few ideas for Gothic calligraphy projects: - Create a calligram incorporating gothic letterforms to represent a word or concept. - Design a book cover with Gothic calligraphy for a novel or poetry collection. - Use Gothic calligraphy to create custom event invitations or announcements. - Create Gothic calligraphy artwork or prints for home decor. - Add a touch of Gothic elegance to your logo design or branding. These are just a few examples, and the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination run wild and explore the dark arts of Gothic calligraphy in your own unique projects. Gothic Calligraphy Projects Description Create a calligram Incorporate Gothic letterforms to represent a word or concept. Design a book cover Use Gothic calligraphy for a novel or poetry collection. Custom event invitations Create unique Gothic calligraphy invitations or announcements. Gothic calligraphy artwork Create prints or artwork for home decor. Logo design and branding Add a touch of Gothic elegance to your logo or branding. "Gothic calligraphy allows you to blend the beauty of lettering with the dark allure of gothic aesthetics. With these projects, you can create visually stunning pieces that evoke a sense of mystery and sophistication." Project Inspiration: Gothic Calligram A calligram is a creative way to combine artistic visuals with the intricate letterforms of Gothic calligraphy. Choose a word or concept that holds meaning to you, and create a calligram by arranging the letters in a way that forms a visual representation of the word. Experiment with different letter sizes, shapes, and orientations to create a visually striking and meaningful calligram. For example, the word "moon" can be creatively transformed into a calligram by shaping the letter "m" into the curves of a crescent moon and intertwining the other letters to represent stars or celestial elements. Let your imagination guide you in crafting unique and captivating calligrams that showcase the beauty of Gothic calligraphy.
Modernizing Gothic Calligraphy: Digital Fonts and Design
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yC2mCPVyGAA In the digital age, Gothic calligraphy has found a new home in the world of digital design. With the rise of graphic design, logo design, and other modern applications, Gothic calligraphy fonts have become increasingly popular. These digital fonts capture the unique style and characteristics of Blackletter script, allowing designers to create visually striking and engaging designs. From elegant and ornate fonts to bold and dramatic ones, there is a wide variety of Gothic calligraphy fonts available. Whether you're looking to add a touch of sophistication to a branding project or create a Gothic-inspired logo, these fonts provide endless possibilities for creative expression. When using Gothic calligraphy fonts, it's important to consider the context and purpose of your design. The distinct letterforms of Blackletter script may not be suitable for all types of projects, so it's crucial to choose a font that aligns with the overall aesthetic and message you want to convey. Experimenting with different font styles and pairing them with complementary elements, such as illustrations or graphics, can result in visually compelling designs that successfully merge the traditional with the contemporary. Gothic Calligraphy Fonts Suitable For Old English Text MT Invitations Blackmoor LET Logos Fraktur BT Branding Deutsch Gothic Posters Remember to consider legibility when using Gothic calligraphy fonts. Some fonts may have intricate details or overly complex letterforms that can make reading difficult, especially at smaller sizes or in digital formats. Be mindful of the readability of your design and ensure that your message is effectively communicated to your audience. In conclusion, Gothic calligraphy fonts offer a unique opportunity to infuse a touch of history, elegance, and intrigue into modern design. By exploring the vast array of Gothic calligraphy fonts available, you can find the perfect typeface to enhance your digital projects and captivate your audience with the timeless beauty of Blackletter script. Table: Example Gothic Calligraphy Fonts and Their Suitable Applications
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gothic calligraphy style offers a mesmerizing journey into the dark arts. With its distinctive letterforms and ornate decoration, this unique style of calligraphy adds an air of elegance and sophistication to any project. Whether you're interested in creating event invitations, designing book arts, or even exploring modern digital design, learning Gothic calligraphy opens up a world of creative possibilities. Throughout history, Gothic calligraphy has stood the test of time, captivating artists and calligraphy enthusiasts alike. By mastering the fundamental strokes, understanding the history and techniques, and incorporating flourishes and creative applications, you can develop your own personal Gothic calligraphy style. Read the full article
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eternal-echoes · 2 months
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“Fredegise, Alcuin's successor as abbot at Saint Martin's, played a definitive part in the development and introduction of Carolingian minuscule. Now Western Europe had a script that could be read and written with relative ease. The introduction of lowercase letters, spaces between words, and other measures intended to increase readability quickened both reading and writing. Two recent scholars describe its "unsurpassed grace and lucidity, which must have had a tremendous effect on the survival of classical literature by casting it in a form that all could read with both ease and pleasure.”1 "It would be no exaggeration," writes Philippe Wolff, "to link this development with that of printing itself as the two decisive steps in the growth of a civilization based on the written word.” Carolingian miniscule-developed by the monks of the Catholic Church-was crucial to building the literacy of Western civilization.”
- Thomas E. Woods Jr., Ph.D., “A Light in the Darkness,” How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization
1. L. D. Reynolds and N. G. Wilson, Scribes and Scholars: A Guide to the Transmission of Greek and Latin Literature, 3rd ed. (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1991), 95.
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watering76 · 3 months
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【字體札記】 字母的演進
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耶穌受難圖大家都很熟悉,但上面寫的IESVS是什麼呢?
想必你已經推理出來了,IESVS就是JESUS,整段話翻譯過來就是:「耶穌,拿撒勒人,猶太人的君王」
會有這樣的拼法,是因為早期的字母表中是沒有JUW這三個字的!我們熟悉的英文字母書寫規則,其實是近三百年才慢慢統一的。
讓我們先回到古羅馬時代:
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這是西元113年,由羅馬帝國皇帝圖拉真所建立的「圖拉真凱旋柱」的碑文,發現了嗎?這個時代還沒有小寫,JUW這三個字也還沒被發明出來,所以圖拉真的TRAJAN這時候拼寫為TRAIAN。
J
是最晚出現在字母表上的字母,在16世紀以前,它常常被當作是I的變體,特別是用在人名的時候,比如前面講到的耶穌,或是凱薩大帝的女兒茱莉雅、雅各、約瑟夫:
JULIA = IVLIA
JACOB = IACOB
JOSEPH = IOSEP
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U
羅馬時代沒有U這個字,/uː/ /ʊ/ /w/這些發音是由V擔任的,所以神祇的名字如朱庇特和茱諾:
JUPITER = IVPITER
JUNO = IVNO
時至今日,我們仍然可以看到這種拼法,一些仿古的品牌或建築招牌,仍然會用V代替U,比如寶格麗:
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W
FYUVW其實是同源字母,都是腓尼基字母𐤅派生而來。
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所以在某些國家中W被稱為雙U,有些稱為雙V。
像這本書就以UUitches代替Witches。
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上面講完大寫的字母表,現在來講小寫。
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注意啊!有些人在查資料的時候,會誤以為上圖的安色爾體(uncial)或島嶼文字(Insular majuscule)是小寫,不對啊!Wrong! 別會錯意了,這兩種文字只是開始有了上下伸部的雛形,本質上都是大寫,沒有小寫的!
小寫要一直到西元八世紀查理曼大帝統一日耳曼,開啟加洛琳王朝之後,當時有大量翻譯的需要,因此統一了書寫的形制,發明了加洛琳小寫體(Carolingian Minuscule)
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可以看到句子的開頭仍然保留了羅馬時代的大寫,而句子內文的部分是小寫。
圖片來源:
DROUOT.com
historyofinformation.com
Yahoo news
wikipedia:Julia_(daughter_of_Caesar)
wikipedia : Wonders of the Invisible World
wikipedia:uncial
wikipedia:Carolingian minuscule
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covenawhite66 · 1 year
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St. Margaret’s Church, also known as Margarethenkirche, dates back to the early 15th century and was established by the Transylvanian Saxons, a community of Germans who settled in this region of Romania in the Middle Ages. The collection of books seems to have been left in the church’s tower for at least decades, perhaps to protect them during the First or Second World War.
These items may have been part of a much larger library collection within the church. Professor Dincă notes that a catalogue published in 1864 lists around 7,700 books held by the library, including dozens of early printed works by Protestant Reformers such as Martin Luther, John Calvin and Philip Melanchthon.
. In addition to that, in the series of administrative registers of the parish, there are several fragments of mediaeval manuscripts, among them one copied in Carolingian minuscule, the rest of the ‘fragments collection’ containing the usual liturgical manuscripts from the 14th to 15th century.
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lettersbyjia · 2 years
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Letter 6 | 9th August, 2022
Dear Reader,
History of Typography is confusing at first.
History of Typography
First evidence of typography was found in cave paintings which eventually shifted to clay tablets where the tool used to write was reed. Ideograms or Egyptians hieroglyphs were the next signs of typography in history. There were 720 symbols. Cuneiforms came next with the number of symbols being cut down 560 and then came Phoenicians with the number being 28. Eventually as years passed and with more evolution came the roman lettering with 26 alphabets.
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Serifs, sans serifs and everything in between:
Trajan:
Roman capitals(monumental typeface) tool used was chisel which created the serifs.
Uncials:
fewer strokes, rounded letters saved ink and page
Half-uncials:
again to save space, precursors to lowercase lettering
Carolingian minuscule:
Calligraphic standard so that the literate could easily recognize it from one region to another.
Blackletter/textura:
The styles of typography changed quite a lot throughout the years with the first typeface being founded by John Gutenberg(also considered the father of typography) who created the movable type(letter press printing) and blackletter. Blackletter was created to mimic the handwriting of monks who used to hand transcribe manuscripts before the inventions of printing press.
Humanist:
Eventually came the humanist style of type where the serifs, vertical stress and angles were designed in such a way that they replicated handwritten letters. Ex Jenson typeface by Nicholas Jenson
Old style/Gerald:
Little contrast between thick and thin strokes with serifs being bracketed, stress is diagonal. Italics were produced around this time as well, again to save money and space. Ex Garamond by Claude Garamond.
Transitional:
relatively higher contrast between thick and thin strokes but less than modern. Axis was almost vertical, bracketed serifs and round terminals. Ex Baskerville by John Baskerville
Modern/hairline serifs:
High contrast between thick and thin strokes, vertical axis non bracketed serifs. Ex Bodoni by Giambattista Bodoni
Slab serifs or Egyptian typeface:
industrial revolution; serifs got bolder with thick slab like styles, typefaces had low contrast Ex Rockwell
Sans serif:
grotesque. Serifs were considered beautiful and Caslon the fourth removed them to create sans serif. We have categories in sans serif as well with geometric sans, humanist sans, neo-grotesque, etc.
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Spontaneous Activity
All of us were tired after taking in a bunch of history lessons so while taking a break we randomly started doing type by humans.
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TYPE
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MILLY
Senior Review!!!!
We had to bring all of our existing work to class to get feedback from our seniors who were a year ahead of us. I was majorly given feedback by Angel.
The feedback was insightful as it was from a third person's perspective and not just limited to the faculty and peers which already understood the essence of the assignments. This way we got an idea if a design was able to be independent of its explanation or not and whether it could stand alone.
Feedback:
AR/Scanimation:
look at other’s work if you are stuck somewhere. Research on topics other than yours and eventually get back or start fresh.
Design movement:
moodboard looks more like a poster, explore more compositions for it as well as constructive fonts to add relevant keywords in the moodboard
liked the outcome idea said could make a digital version as well
Word expressive art:
adjust spacing so that anxious is more readable and a comprehensive word.
Typography and senior review are daunting in different ways. With one being extensive history(I'm not too fond of it.) and the other having your work analyzed. However after writing down the History of Typography document, it become much more simpler and easier to remember. Senior review turned out to be very candid and helpful.
Font regards,
Jiali Thakkar.
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shcherbatskya · 1 year
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emailing my history teacher like “you said charlemagne invented the carolingian minuscule, but how did he invent a shorthand if he couldn’t even learn to write? was it his gay best friend who actually invented it and Carl got all the credit?? thank you.”
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uwmspeccoll · 3 years
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Typography Tuesday
UNCIAL SCRIPTS AND THE CAROLINGIAN MINUSCULE
The upper and lower case letters we are used to today, along with spaces between words, punctuation, and enlarged initial letters, were a development of the late 8th century known as the Carolingian Minuscule. This manuscript hand not only established a uniform book hand that would be used throughout Charlemagne’s sprawling empire, but it also established the kinds of letter forms that would serve as the models for every Western typographic design to our current day. Today, we essentially read and write in the Carolingian Minuscule.
The Carolingian Minuscule itself developed from the insular uncial scripts and partly from the Roman half uncial that were used at Irish and Anglo-Celtic monasteries that had been founded all over Europe by the late 6th century. The insular monks who founded these monasteries also brought the traditions of word spacing, punctuation, and initial letters with them to the continent. The uncial scripts themselves derived from the late imperial Rustic Capitals, which themselves seem to have been based on Roman epigraphic letter forms.
The main characteristic of the miniscule is the breaking of the x-height with large capital letters and the characteristic ascenders and descenders found in such letters as b, d, f, g, h, k, l, p, q, t, and the rounding of capital letters into forms we know as “lower case” today, such as a, e, i, m, n. The precursors to these can be seen clearly in the first set of examples of the Irish half uncial from our facsimile copy of the Book of Kells (Luzern: Faksimile Verlag, 1990) and the Anglo-Celtic uncial form found in our facsimile copy of the Lindisfarne Gospels (second to last image; Olten and Lausanne, Switzerland: Urs Graf, 1956-60). The original manuscripts were produced at the monasteries of Iona in about 800 CE, and Lindisfarne around 725 CE, respectively. The difference between these and the Carolingian Minuscule is that the letter forms in these manuscripts are all majuscules, i.e., formal capital letters, not the informal miniscule hand that we associate with “lower-case” letters today.
The last example is that of the Roman half uncial, a majuscule hand, also used by Anglo-Celtic scribes on the continent. This example is from our facsimile copy of the Lorsch Gospels ( New York: George Braziller, 1967), a Carolingian manuscript originally produced at Aachen around 810 CE. Here, no spacing between words or punctuation can be seen.
It is said that Charlemagne tasked his main Anglo-Celtic scholar Alcuin of York with devising a new, uniform, manuscript book hand. Alcuin, but more likely others, turned to the informal versions of the uncial letter forms they were familiar with and the Carolingian Minuscule was born! With, of course, profound implications for how we read and write today.
View our post on the early use of the Carolingian Minuscule.
View our other Typography Tuesday posts.
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If you wanted to write about a pleasant day in Mesopotamia, or turtles or Socrates or anything else, it was capital letters all the way down. The association with antiquity — feats of great Romans, for instance, were chiseled in all-caps — is why capital letters accumulated a sense of “grandeur,” “pomposity” or “aesthetic seriousness” over the course of millennia, as Paul Luna, an expert in typography and graphic communication at the University of Reading in Britain, explained to the New Republic in 2014. By the 3rd century, the Greeks developed a way to write letters in minuscule, or shortened forms of uppercase letters. The purpose of minuscule was to speed up writing books by hand while keeping the text legible. But there was no meaningful division between a word written in majuscule, equivalent to uppercase, and minuscule. During King Charlemagne’s Carolingian Renaissance, a group of monks led by English scholar Alcuin of York produced the Carolingian minuscule script, meant to be read across Europe. It proved to be a success, forming the basis for modern Roman type. By the early 15th century, minuscule morphed into lowercase, and the Latin alphabet solidified as the two-part system we use today. “For uppercase types they used types based on stable, capital letters of ancient Rome,” wrote Croatian media designer Mario Tomiša and his colleagues in 2013 in the journal Technical News. “On the other hand, lowercase types derived from Carolingian soft and warm script.”
“How all caps came to signify shouting” from Washington Post
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catilinas · 3 years
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this summer school has been hyping up carolingian minuscule all week and now that i have sat down to watch the lectures the website is down :(((
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whatiscalligraphy · 4 months
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mercisnm · 2 years
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Today I am thinking about the scene with Tissaia in her nightgown gazing longingly at Yen's wanted poster (and many thanks and curses to T. for introducing the term "w*nk bank" to me) and how twn just, used the modern Latin alphabet (in contrast to the games inventing a whole new script to write the common tongue).
And it's with a humanist typeface nonetheless (*).
But what took me the fuck out was, of course, the unnecessary umlaut, because how to make it look European? Throw an umlaut in that'd do the job.
(*): on why the use of a humanistic typeface is the funniest ever because
1. the popularization of printing in the Western part of the world is closely tied to Christianity, so since the witcher universe is so diverse in term of religion, which tome is the equivalence of the Gutenberg bible?
2. I know for sure that the witcher universe is made up so its progress is different to ours but let's just say for the sake of my nerding out, it has the printing revolution, which was in the 15th century, then is the world of the witcher around/past its own renaissance as well?
3. yes yes let's assume that printing was popularized in the witcher world reasons 404 not found for the sake of argument, what's still funny about it, is the humanist typeface. The typeface that was popular for printing in Europe up until the 17th century was Blackletter (Gothic/Textura), and the humanist typeface was popular as a handwritten script i.e. why the hell would you use it for printing duh
4. the humanist typeface, as suggested by the name, was invented by Italian Renaissance humanists, which focused on the study of classical antiquity. It was the obsession with classical antiquity that led them to invent this script (based on the Carolingian minuscule, which they considered to be ancient Roman). Not to make a they don't even have France joke here but the history of calligraphy and printing and all that mess is closely tied to some very our-own-earth-specific parts of history that would take a hell lot of explaining to transfer to a high-fantasy setting so please just, idk, invent your own script again, that would save a nerd from this much rambling.
The random use of umlaut still took me the fuck out though.
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