[Fig. 201.] (see [footnote], p. [365])
Wood and Metal Engraving.—If special forms or arrangements of letters are required, for which type is lacking or unsuited, they are best cut in wood or [p367] metal. The engraver leaves the mark of his tool and hand upon, and so gives character to, such lettering; while, if he has some knowledge of letters, he may give fresh beauty to their forms.
The Zincotype Process reproduces, either in facsimile or on a reduced scale, the “design” made by the craftsman in “black and white.” This it does more or less exactly according to the pains taken by the zincographer, the quality of the paper employed, &c. The literalness and facility of this process, however, seem to have had a prejudicial effect on the work of the designer. Unless he conscientiously determines that his design shall stand without “touching-up,” the knowledge that he may blot out or trim a faulty line with white, that he may fill out or finish a deficient stroke with black, that he may work large and zincograph small, is apt to result in carelessness combined with over-finishing—or a sort of perfection without character.
If zincography be used, a strong, rather type-like letter, or a built-up letter—arranged to give a general effect of richness of mass, would appear more natural than the doubtful “reproduction” of delicate writing or fine pen-lettering.[113]
Etching.—Calligraphy might be reproduced with very fine effect, retaining its natural delicacy and on a plane surface, if a process of etching writing in facsimile were possible.
PRINTING
The general question of fine printing and its relation to calligraphy can only be briefly referred [p368] to here. A proper study of the art of typography necessitates practice with a printing press, and probably the help of a trained assistant.
To would-be printers, printers, and all interested in typography, the easily acquired art of writing may be commended as a practical introduction to a better knowledge of letter forms and their decorative possibilities.
In this connection I have quoted in the preface (p. [13]) some remarks on Calligraphy by Mr. Cobden-Sanderson, who, again, referring to typography, says—[114]