This grand compilation presents more than 250 depictions of the alphabet's changing forms, from handsome Roman letters cut in marble and delicate English courthand to sixteenth-century Greek initials and modern styles inspired by Gothic, Japanese, and other forms of writing. In addition to its intriguing survey of historical trends, this book also offers richly illustrated reflections on the artistic ability involved in rendering the alphabet. An introductory essay traces the evolution of the English alphabet, followed by a wealth of old alphabets arranged in order of date. Among the selection of modern alphabets are samples that offer evidence of how the surface — wood, stone, leather, mosaic — and the writing instrument — chisel, needle, brush, stylus, pen — can affect the character of the lettering. An assortment of ampersands and numerals concludes the volume, along with an index of illustrations arranged by artist, country, material and process, and style. Artists, graphic artists, historians, and anyone with an interest in calligraphy will appreciate the historic sweep and artistic range of this treasury of lettering.

Calligraphy and the lettering arts have been enjoying a renaissance all across America. This volume offers a selection of the work of the calligraphers who have made major contribtions to the field and whose work, in the opinion of their peers, is consistently outstanding. Illustrated with 140 examples of this work, it displays the richness and diversity of this art form.

Beginning reader.

A is for Art: An Abstract Alphabet is a remarkable journey of discovery about art and language through painting, collage, and sculpture by Caldecott Honor artist Stephen T. Johnson. With literal renderings of each letter, complete with witty titles and playful, alliterative captions, Johnson's abstract art forges connections between words, objects, and ideas. Can you find the hidden letters? Look closely and you will see a letter C made of colorful candy, a letter H hidden in a hook, and an S in a soft shadow. From A to Z, each stunning, original work of art will stimulate the imagination and creativity of children and adults alike.

A surreal and gorgeous alphabet book from exceptional artist Norman Messenger.The ingenious Norman Messenger transforms the ordinary letters of the alphabet into extraordinary objects in this visionary collection of flora, fauna and more. This is a book for all ages to delight in and it would make a beautiful gift. "A stunner." Observer"While parents puzzle over the meanings, small children will be tracing the curious shapes with their fingers - just as they ought to learn their letters." Wall Street Journal"All ages will delight in this stunningly illustrated book which helps us to look at letters in unexpected ways." Parents in Touch

The perfect way to introduce children to the fascinating world of dinosaurs. Full of interesting facts--did you know some dinosaurs had sharp front teeth while others had no front teeth at all? This alphabet book explores both the known and the not-so-well known dinosaurs. Meet the heterodontosaurus (one of the smallest known to exist), the megalosaurus (the first dinosaur ever discovered), the iguanodon, the ultrasaurus, and more! Once again, Jerry Pallotta and Ralph Masiello have combined their talents to create a unique children's book that will inform and entertain young readers.

From Dan Aykroyd to Bobby Fischer, Jodi DiPiazza to Greta Thunberg, Autistic Legends Alphabet presents a wide - ranging A to Z of inspiring people on the Autism spectrum. Beautifully illustrated and movingly written, this unique Alphabet Legends title is a 'must read' for every young person on the spectrum, and their family.

Chicago–based jewelry engraver J. M. Bergling (1866–1933) created thousands of letter styles, signets, monograms, and ciphers. A noted author on the subjects of lettering and heraldic design, Bergling created books that became standard references of his era. He assembled his first book, Art Monograms and Letters,with the hopes of inspiring other etchers, engravers, sign painters, and artisans. This volume contains selected illustrations from that publication in addition to his complete Art Alphabets and Lettering,which comprises 96 pages of layouts and letter styles ranging from simple to ornate. Commercial artists, designers, calligraphers, engravers, amateurs, and professionals will prize this exclusive edition as a source of high-quality images and alphabets. This reference book features an appreciative Foreword by artist and author James Gurney, which places Bergling's works in historical context.

Discover the alphabet from a bird's-eye view! Geographer and designer duo Benedikt Gross and Joey Lee have taken the alphabet to new heights—literally! Using satellite imagery and computer technology, the pair has discovered "accidental letters" all over the world: in roads, rivers, buildings, lakes, and more. Take a journey around the Earth in 26 letters with this special book. “A delightful anytime book with hours of entertainment”—Booklist