9 Robert Granjon When creating a new typeface, a designer can inject the most artistic flair into the ampersand character. While the connection between the capital letters E and T was initially formed by writing quickly, later calligraphic manuscripts show the middle part of the E, consisting of semicircles, joined to the T by a more intentional, flowing horizontal line. The left-hand portion of the ampersand is either a lowercase e or a capital E consisting of two semicircles. The variations of the ampersand are manifold, particularly in italics.
Ampersand usage varies from language to language.
In English and French text, the ampersand may be substituted for the words and and et , and both versions may be used in the same text. In any language, the ampersand's calligraphic qualities make it a compelling design element that can add visual appeal and personality to any page. 12 Max Caflisch, designer of the Columna typeface, is a design consultant and writer who, for 20 years, was managing director and professor of typography at the School of Arts and Crafts in Zurich, Switzerland. His award-winning book design is recognised worldwide. L'Ecriture latine de la capitale romaine a la minuscule.