Page 66 - Graphic Design and Print Production Fundamentals
P. 66
54 Chapter 3. Design Elements, Design Principles, and Compositional Organization
Old Style
Figure 3.12 Example of Old Style type
Old style fonts, also known as Garalde fonts, are the next leap in font design, and their stylistic
developments were driven by the technological advancement of presses and the improved skills of
punchcutters (see Figure 3.12). Font designers began to explore the possibilities of their medium — both
the metal of the punches and the abilities of the presses and their papers. The letterforms became more
precise, their serifs more distinct. The contrast of the stroke weights was also increased, and the presses
held true to the design and didn’t distort them. The aim of these new fonts ceased to be about replicating
the look of handwriting and more about refining the letterforms to create a lighter overall tone.
Examples of old style fonts include Goudy Old Style, Granjon, Janson, Palatino, Perpetua, Plantin, and
Sabon.
