Of the Just Shaping of Letters   By: Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

Of the Just Shaping of Letters by Albrecht Dürer is a comprehensive and illuminating guide to the art of calligraphy. Originally published in the early 16th century, this timeless masterpiece showcases Dürer's profound understanding and mastery of letterforms, making it an indispensable resource for both aspiring and experienced calligraphers.

Dürer's work is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects of calligraphy. The first part delves into the fundamental principles of constructing various letterforms. With meticulous attention to detail, Dürer demonstrates how to create letters of different styles and sizes, showcasing the beauty and versatility of calligraphy. His explanations are clear and concise, allowing even novice calligraphers to follow along and practice with ease.

One of the standout features of this book is the inclusion of numerous examples and exemplars, which provide a valuable source of inspiration for artists. Dürer's own exquisite hand-drawn illustrations, alongside alphabets and elaborate initials, showcase his impeccable artistic skills and provide readers with practical models to study and emulate.

In addition to technical instruction, Dürer also emphasizes the importance of proper posture, hand positioning, and movement techniques. His advice on tools, inks, and paper selection further enhances the reader's understanding of the art of calligraphy. Dürer's dedication to his craft is evident throughout the book, as he goes above and beyond, sharing his wealth of knowledge in a manner that is both accessible and engaging.

Despite being written centuries ago, Of the Just Shaping of Letters remains as relevant today as it was during Dürer's time. The book's enduring legacy is a testament to the timeless appeal of calligraphy as an art form and the invaluable insights that Dürer offers to all who seek to master it.

Overall, Of the Just Shaping of Letters is an indispensable resource for calligraphers, artists, and enthusiasts alike. Dürer's expertise and passion shine through every page, offering a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned professional seeking to refine your skills, this book is a must-have addition to your collection.

First Page:

In our Germany, most excellent Wilibald, are to be found at the present day many young men of a happy talent for the Art Pictorial, who without any artistic training whatever, but taught only by their daily exercise of it, have run riot like an unpruned tree, so that unhesitatingly and without compunction they turn out their works, purely according to their own judgment. But when great and ingenious artists behold their so inept performances, not undeservedly do they ridicule the blindness of such men; since sane judgment abhors nothing so much as a picture perpetrated with no technical knowledge, although with plenty of care and diligence. Now the sole reason why painters of this sort are not aware of their own error is that they have not learnt Geometry, without which no one can either be or become an absolute artist; but the blame for this should be laid upon their masters, who themselves are ignorant of this art... Continue reading book >>