The evolution of type : a graphic guide to 100 landmark typefaces : examining letters from metal type to open type
(Book)

Includes bibliographical references (page 250) and index.

The Evolution of Type takes you on a journey through the development of type design and typographic style from the mid 15th century to the present day by way of 100 typefaces chosen to represent the key elements of style and form used by the punch cutters, calligraphers, and designers of their day. Presented in chronological order according to release date, each typeface is discussed in terms of its origins and its impact on the design and the print industry, and latterly for screen and digital use. Versions released in metal foundry type for hand-setting, as hot metal type for the Monotype and Linotype machines, as phototype, and as digital revivals or originals, are covered in detail alongside information about the people responsible for the design and development of each adaptation of the typeface. Key glyphs from each face are annotated to indicate the specific features that mark out how typeface design has evolved over the last 500 or so years, and visual comparisons are shown to illustrate how typefaces created years ago have influenced the design of many contemporary releases. For the general reader, this book gives a fascinating insight into the history behind the typefaces people read, and at the same time provides a valuable resource for typographers and designers to help inform their choice when selecting the most appropriate typeface for a project.