20th Century Typography Fund

      20th Century Typography

      20th Century Typography

      In the 20th century, modern typography benefited from a historical context of great turmoil, which brought technical innovation and changes to several areas of printing, introducing new systems of composition and reproduction. Inevitably, technical innovation also brought with it innovative aesthetic requirements in the design of typefaces (type design) to adapt to the tastes and needs of new and increasingly pervasive channels and forms of communication. 

        The collection consists of over 100 pieces, including typographic specimens, brochures, flyers, typeface samples, manuals, and books devoted to typography, relating to the second half of the 20th century. There are numerous brochures presenting the most important type foundries, technical manuals, and special printed matter, such as a wine list designed and composed by Cassandre (1931).
        In addition to these materials are a number of volumes on the history and criticism of typography signed by Stanley Morison, Eric Gill, among others, and historical magazines («Penrose Annual», «Signature» and «U&lc»). The Fund is constantly replenished by newly acquired materials or materials stored in other Funds.

        Archival Accompanying Tools
        Partial filing

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        The Graphic Design Library and Archive can only be accessed by appointment and a temporary membership. When making an enquiry, it is advisable to state the reason for the consultation in as much detail as possible: greater clarity will enable us to provide the best possible service to students and researchers and to prepare the materials accordingly.

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