We've done a lot of Gothic text letters this month. You'll be wanting to "capitalize" on them. Here's how, based on the simplified Gothic letter forms of Versals, below from May 6, #105.
Gothic manuscript capitals are decorated in some combination of these three kinds of space: surrounding the letter, inside the letter, and within the letter stroke itself. The letters above show each one; the letter below shows all three together.
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| Three kinds of ornament. |
- 1. Since many letters are circular shapes inside a square frame, you can decorate the corners.
2. The interior space of most letters opens a window into foliage, pattern, or a scene.
3. The space inside the stroke may be filled with ornament in color, or solid gold leaf (right).
Medieval ornament wasn't always very elaborate. This O is partly filled with parallel lines and loops. This tiny R is painted blue and quickly filled and surrounded with simple red hash marks. (Original size, about 1/4 " square. )
You can see some more examples of decorated capitals on my Pinterest board: http://pinterest.com/shepherdscribe/beautiful-letters-from-the-past/
The Y and O above are from the book 50 Medieval Manuscript Leaves, and are used here courtesy of David Bindle. http://www.blurb.com/books/2272528-50-medieval-manuscript-leaves
Next Sunday's projects will explain how to place your capital letter in the text.
Thank you so much, Margaret... the "Project: Decorating three kinds of Gothic space" is so useful! I had no idea how to even start with these beautiful decorated initials and you made it so simple!
ReplyDeleteHope to take a course with (if you give them) and would love to meet in person one day. The world needs more people just like you, making this world a much, much better place. Gracias, mi amiga.
Do you have a way to sign up for new posts you make? Love your blog! CatherineTodd2 (at) gmail (dot) com
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