The Roman Alphabet and Its Derivatives (1925) — Digital Download

Trajan-column lettering reproduced, as an instant download.

The Roman Alphabet and Its Derivatives (1925) by Allen W. Seaby reproduces the Trajan column lettering and traces its descendants — the classical-alphabet angle for sign painters who cut Roman capitals. The root of Western lettering, studied properly.

Inside this 1925 pattern-book:

A pattern-book of letterforms: ornamental alphabets and initials collected for working craftsmen, not scholars. Lettering artists, sign painters, engravers, and calligraphers laying out signs, engravings, or illuminated work will find (PDF verified 4.1 MB; count TBD) pages of 1925 inspiration in Allen W. Seaby’s plates.

Details:

• Complete 1925 edition scan — 98 pages
• Trajan column inscriptional lettering
• The classical roots of Roman capitals
• Plates drawn at working scale — trace, adapt, and letter from them
• Ornamental, Roman, and medieval hands in one reference
• Two files included: the original scan, cleaned of dust, stray marks, and handwritten notes, and a cleaned white-background edition that's easy on the eyes and the printer
• PDF format, instant download after purchase — no physical book ships

Tags: Books, Downloads, Vintage Books, Digital Download, Lettering, Design