I found these lovely flourishes while touring the War Museum in Nafplio, Greece. (Tom and Matt can spend HOURS in war museums...) I've enlarged this section. I love analyzing the strokes. You can see that the calligrapher changed his/her mind about the exit stroke on the left.
I think this document is dated 1833, but it's Greek to me. :)
The date seems about right, because it was located in a room dedicated to the Greek War of Independence (1821-1832).
I love the different styles of lettering and the ornamental flourishing.
This is lettering beneath an illustration of the Battle of Navarino. I believe the piece was a gift from the British, who were allies of the Greeks during the war.
A second, British piece. I think the calligrapher of these two pieces must have been a fan of George Bickham's "Universal Penman" too!
Wishing you a great weekend!
Gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So rich looking!
ReplyDeletethese documents are beautiful examples of how gorgeous letterforms can be!! what a treat to be able to see them up close and personal!!! happy weekend to you, dear sweet jane!! xox, :))
ReplyDeleteHi, Jane, Love your blog, thanks so much for all your sweet comments on my blog too. Greece sounds fabulous, colors, etc. A feast for an artist. xoxox
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