The Bible of Illuminated LettersThe Bible of Illuminated Letters
Learn the ancient, creative art of illumination
Illumination—the creation of elaborate, decorated letters and initials—became an artform in the monasteries of medieval Europe. Embellished with gold leaf, the illuminated letters of those early scribes seemed to reflect light, as though they were indeed "illuminated." This traditional art is now attracting enthusiasts who are seeking out a new craft or hobby.
This adult activity book includes instructions for recreating illuminated alphabets from six historical periods, ranging from the Celtic to the Renaissance. Diagrams for upper- and lower-case letters are accompanied by ideas for borders and decorations, and full instructions for gilding.
Each section explores ways the illuminated letters can be adapted to create a truly personal style, while a gallery of modern examples will inspire further creativity.
You'll also learn about tools and techniques, including:
- Setting up a workstation
- Paper, vellum and parchment
- Brushes, pens, pencils, paints and inks
- Gilding
- Layout and design
- and much more
This beautiful book also features a picture gallery of outstanding historical and contemporary illuminated letters, as well as a glossary and index. More than 400 inspiring color illustrations in total. A perfect gift for adults looking to explore calligraphy or bookbinding, The Bible of Illuminated Letters is a must-have for anyone looking for creative, mindful activities.
The ancient art of illuminating manuscripts is currently attracting many new enthusiasts among artists, art students, and lovers of calligraphy. The Bible of Illuminated Letters is a volume they'll all want to add to their collections. It presents step-by-step instructions for recreating twelve illuminated alphabets. Among them are Celtic, Saxon, Gothic, Romanesque, Modern Revival, and seven more, including several modern scripts. Detailed diagrams instruct on creating upper- and lower-case letters, as well as on ways for designing borders and decorations. More ambitious students can also follow clear directions for gilding--decorating with gold leaf--as was originally done in medieval European monasteries. Readers and students of illumination who open this book will find: a history of illumination; required tools, techniques, and materials for illuminating; instruction in layout and design; and steps to follow in order to create 12 alphabet styles. This beautiful book also features a picture gallery of outstanding historical and contemporary illuminated letters, as well as a glossary and index. More than 400 inspiring color illustrations in total.
This generously illustrated, small format (6.5x8") guidebook presents step-by-step instructions for recreating illuminated alphabets from six historical periods, including the Celtic, Gothic and Romanesque. Diagrams for upper- and lower-case letters are accompanied by ideas for borders and decorations. The guide also includes full instructions for gilding. Morgan, a professional calligrapher and associate of the Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society, gives advice about adapting illuminated letters to create a personal style. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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- Hauppauge, N.Y. : Barron's Educational Series, 2006.
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