The Art of the Scribe

Folios from some of the most celebrated and exquisite medieval and Renaissance manuscripts in the collections of the British Library and other international institutions provide the inspiration for twenty-one practical art and calligraphy projects. Seven classic scripts are explored in turn by expert Patricia Lovett. She explains their characteristics, origins and development and creates exemplar diagrams to show basic letter shapes and the pen strokes required to produce them. Each chapter ends with three complementary projects drawing on aspects of the historical manuscripts illustrated on the preceding pages. These projects are suited to a range of abilities and are illustrated with step-by-step photographs and beautiful images of the finished works. Following on from these chapters, an authoritative section provides vital guidance on specialist tools and materials, as well as practical techniques, including cutting quills, preparing pigments and applying gold leaf and shell gold, to enable you to truly re-capture this medieval artform.