Specimens of Chromatic Wood Type, Borders, &c. by Esther K. Smith

B4522. Specimens of Chromatic Wood Type, Borders, &c. by Esther K. Smith. Hardcover; 120 pages; 10" x 13.25"

Specimens of Chromatic Wood Type, Borders, &c. is a cherished gem in the worlds of typography, design, and book collecting. Originally a catalog for William H. Page’s renowned Connecticut wood type foundry, this 1874 specimen book showcases elaborate typefaces designed for eye-catching displays like tent revivals and circuses.

This edition faithfully reproduces all 102 pages of the original, featuring intricate typefaces and whimsical designs. The pages, arranged in a delightfully random sequence, read like humorous, experimental poetry. Whether by accident or design, this book captivates with its beauty and charm.

Perfect as a gift or a must-have for any art-book collection, this volume will be adored by typographers, designers, artists, poets, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone with a flair for unique style.

"When a vintage typeface, for instance, is refreshed through a tweak here and refinement there, the end result can be a seamless combination of old and new aesthetics. For this alchemy to work, expert type and typography choices must be made because type is a critical part of any retro/contempo equation. Many of wood and metal typeface styles were designed for their specific moment in time and are indelibly wed to those moments." ––Steven Heller, Addicted to Wood.

Hardcover; 120 pages; 10" x 13.25"