THE BASKERVILLE VELLUM
A timeless material that embodies the very essence of beauty and refinement, transforming each word into a work of art and each page into a masterpiece to admire.
The Baskerville Vellum: Timeless Elegance for Prestigious Printing
In 1750, the world of printing was revolutionized by a groundbreaking invention: vellum. This noble material, designed by John Baskerville, a renowned English typographer and businessman, represents a true epiphany in the landscape of prestigious publishing.
As a typographer at the University of Cambridge, Baskerville distinguished himself by printing literary classics of great prestige. Among his most admired works are the editions of Milton from 1758, Juvénal and Perse from 1761, and Horace from 1762. His Ariosto from 1773, known as the “Birmingham” edition, is famous and considered one of the most splendid books of the 18th century.
Baskerville’s typographic characters were acquired by Beaumarchais and transported to Kehl, in Rhineland, where they were used for the edition of Voltaire’s works between 1780 and 1790.
The expertise of Baskerville in printing classical works and the beauty of his characters have left an indelible mark in the world of typography and high-quality book production.
The Art Hidden in the Unique Characteristics of Vellum
The smooth and matte paper, produced with an innovative technique using cotton and linen fibers, embodies the quintessence of elegance and refinement. Baskerville’s vellum is distinguished by its enveloping softness, resistance to time, and uniform surface that gracefully accommodates the features of typographic characters and illustrations. These unique characteristics give vellum an impeccable finish, transforming each word and drawing into a true work of art.
A Journey Through the Pages of Typographic History
Vellum has shaped not only paper but also the choice of fonts used by typographers. The harmony between paper and characters has led to the revival of classic fonts like Garamond and Caslon, as well as the emergence of new creations like Baskerville, designed by the inventor of vellum himself. This fusion of tradition and modernity has given rise to prints of timeless beauty.
The Irresistible Fascination of Vellum for Bibliophiles
Even today, Baskerville’s vellum is coveted by bibliophile collectors for its extraordinary beauty and its ability to enhance texts and images, turning each page into a masterpiece. Editions printed on this noble material are considered treasures to be preserved, with a value far beyond mere content.
The Daily Use of an Artistic Treasure
But Baskerville’s vellum is not only meant for art collections. Thanks to its elegance and superior quality, it can be used for daily writing, adding a touch of refinement to letters, notes, and cards, transforming each word into a sensory experience.
In Search of the Essence of Beauty
Baskerville’s legacy lives on today, inspiring generations of typographers and designers striving for excellence. His dedication to quality and perfection serves as a model for those aspiring to push the boundaries of typographic art and graphic design.
His innovative approach and visionary vision have shaped the publishing industry, establishing unparalleled standards of beauty and refinement. His creations have elevated book printing to the level of a true art form, infusing soul into every printed page.
Although time has passed, Baskerville’s influence is still felt, with his name becoming synonymous with excellence and perfection in the world of typography. His work continues to inspire those who seek to celebrate grace, elegance, and beauty in the art of printing.
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