Customer Reviews

Color Decoration & Illumination in Calligraphy: Techniques and Projects

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In the under $15 range of books regarding the methods of illumination, this little book can't be beat--and it is better then a number of how-to's priced over $15. The book offers a historical survey of illumination, an introduction to materials, 5 projects small enough to be non-intimidating to beginners (without being too simple for those with experience), and a gallery of modern calligraphy.

The book is lavishly illustrated with color photos, and is written in a friendly manner--no difficult jargon here. There is a small glossary for those bits of calligraphy terminology that can't be avoided.

The emphasis of the book is on modern usage; if you are looking for a book regarding historical method, you may be a bit disappointed. The "hisorical" calligraphic hands are all modern adaptations, as are the techniques and projects. On the other hand, if you want a lovely book to assist you in branching into illumination, this is for you.

I do think that the technique section is missing some worthy tips. Too, this book is written for those who dwell in England. This makes the suppliers list pretty useless for anyone not in the British Isles, and makes those who still use English Measurement run for their Metric Convesion Tables.

it has a very nice section on illumination, but i was disappointed on the calligraphy portion. the medieval hands it goes over are not period correct. they are nothing more then a modern interpretation of the true hand. if you're looking for help with illumination? get this book!