Penman, Printer And Engraver

This film traces the development of hand-written books of the fourteenth century to the introduction of steel nibs in the late nineteenth century. Shows how the Gothic block letter geometric style and italian (or italic) open light and free style were a reflection of life styles of northern and southern Europe. The film takes one through the golden age of the penman which was fatally broken by the printing press. The craft of engraving is also demonstrated. Donald Jackson, Royal Calligrapher, is host.