So many aspects of the calligraphic arts are covered in Mastering Calligraphy.
Godfrey-Nicholls starts with calligraphic history, tools and materials along with tips on how to practice the craft. She explains how to use the various tools and media as need for them dictates. Instruction begins as the historical hands are described with in-depth detail, and a ductus for each one is presented along with lovely examples of their use.
After the traditional hands are covered, then the variations, non-traditional and contemporary lettering styles are depicted in the same comprehensive style.
In the latter part of the book there are explanations on how to do backgrounds, colors, embossing, layout, illumination and more!
There are beautiful galleries of photos throughout of accomplished calligraphers work. My favorite part of the book were the many artists’ profiles to offer insight to how they work, where their inspiration comes from and personal tips for the aspiring calligrapher.
Mastering Calligraphy is new to the Kaligrafos Library, and is a thorough manual of calligraphy and a work of art itself. Once you see how much information is in it, you may want a copy as a reference book in your personal library. I highly recommend you to check it out! ( )