1950 Manuscript and Inscription Letters by Johnston / Portfolio Containing 16 Plates, 5 by AER Gill / For Calligraphers, Crafts, Stonemasons

In excellent condition, here is a portfolio of Manuscript and Inscription Letters by Edward Johnston. Featuring carved and written alphabets, comprising sixteen large plates - five of which are by AER Gill.

A seminal work in the history of lettering and calligraphy, first published in 1909. It was designed as a practical guide for schools, classes, and craftsmen, and it remains influential in the study of letterforms and inscriptional design. This portfolio was used to teach students and artisans the principles of good lettering. The plates showcase alphabets suitable for manuscript writing and stone inscription, emphasizing clarity, proportion, and beauty.

Eric Gill’s plates are particularly notable for their sculptural quality and precision, reflecting his background in stone carving and type design.

Johnston is often credited with reviving formal calligraphy in the early 20th century and influencing type design, including the creation of the iconic London Underground typeface. Gill, a student of Johnston, went on to design classic typefaces like Gill Sans and Perpetua, and his work in this portfolio reflects his early mastery of letterform aesthetics.

Inside the contents are in excellent condition. The portfolio is also clean and smart, with one small pencil price to the front paste down.

Your vintage copy of Manuscript and Inscription Letters will be wrapped with care in tissue and ribbon* and sent well packaged. I am always happy to include a gift card and message if desired.

H 20.5 cm x W 14 cm, 243 pages, 0.44 kg. I dispatch worldwide daily from the UK. (There are just a very few countries which I am unable to ship to).

* If you would prefer for your portfolio not to be decoratively wrapped but sent simply in the full protective packaging please add a note to the order.

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