num_pages: 256
description: 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.
language: English
title: The Bible of Illuminated Letters: A Treasury of Decorative Calligraphy
titlecomplete: The Bible of Illuminated Letters: A Treasury of Decorative Calligraphy (Quarto Book)
genres: Art, Religion, Crafts, Medieval, Reference, Nonfiction
ratings_count: 182
awards: awardedAt: 1136102400000
name: Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award
category: Editor's Choice - Non-Fiction
publisher: Sourcebooks