calligraphy supplies
Why Fine Calligraphy Requires Much More Than Simply Fine Writing Paper
In general, people are attracted to the skilfully and elegantly written word. In fact, few would disagree that the art of handwriting, otherwise known as calligraphy, is amongst the most appealing art forms. Millions of people world wide take up calligraphy, investing in calligraphy sets and suitable writing paper on which to practice.
Just like any other form of art, however, nothing can be accomplished without the right implements, though technique obviously hugely important too. The choice of calligraphy pens and nibs does contribute to the perfectly finished characters. Indeed, even the choice and consistency of calligraphy ink can have an effect on the quality of the image
The fact is that, in practice, there is a wide range of calligraphic styles and techniques to consider. Calligraphy is not simply a type of writing, it is ideally the perfect presentation of specific alphabet and written forms, from Chinese characters to Egyptian hieroglyphics. Amongst the most popular amongst enthusiasts are Western calligraphy, Eastern calligraphy, Islamic calligraphy and Persian calligraphy.
These four writing forms are hugely different but elegant and beautiful in their respective styles. Western calligraphy uses, in the main, the Roman alphabet while the chief styles, or hands, are Gothic, Italic, Roman and Copperplate. The items used to produce these styles are the pen, with the stereotypical fountain pen nib, and the brush.
However, Eastern calligraphy, which includes Chinese, Japanese and Korean writing, make use of the brush, primarily. The brush is held above the paper and the ink, which is water based, effectively painted onto the page. However, the thick and thin strokes that characterise fine calligraphy is accomplished by adjusting the inclination of the brush. The result is bold characters that are distinct rather than smooth flowing, which is the case in Western, Islamic and Persian calligraphic styles.
For those taken by Islamic calligraphy, the traditional implement is the qalam, which is a pen made of dried reed. Amongst the most popular styles is Mosque calligraphy, which is that more closely associated with the writing seen in Mosques throughout the Islamic world. Persian calligraphy, meanwhile, is closely linked to Islamic calligraphy, appearing to most as being one of the same. However, it is an older form of writing, predating Islam by several hundred years.
While the nib and brush are hugely important to the calligrapher, so too is the paper, ink and, indeed, ceremony involved in practicing the art form. For example, in Eastern calligraphy, the paper is laid flat on a low table, at which the calligrapher sits with legs crossed. The paper is kept flat with the use of paperweights, with the ink and inkstone beside the paper. In Japaneses culture, these four items are known as The Four Treasures of the Study.
The ink used is water based as it must be less viscous than the oil based ink used in printing. However, the consistency of the ink can be adapted to suit the desired style. In some cases, it is coloured, with Islamic and Persian calligraphers often opting for reddish shades.
When it comes to the paper, parchment and vellum paper are usually recommended. However, ordinary Xerox paper can be perfectly suitable, so long as it is inkjet paper as it is geared more towards absorbing water based ink than laserjet paper.
It may seem a mystery why calligraphy appeals to so many. In fact, it is highly accessible, with people wanting to learn calligraphy despite having no obvious ability in the other arts. It can even crosses continents, with a man in New York finding himself with an insatiable desire to master Persian calligraphy, despite never having been to that part of the world.
There can be little wonder then that calligraphy sets are so popular and are widely available in book and art supply shops. However, there is little secret either in the fact that, for the finest results, quality calligraphy ink complete with a full range of nibs is required. Similarly, calligraphy pens of the right quality and consistency is vital.
Only then should the matter of writing paper be addressed, with only paper that is of high enough quality to complement the effort made to be chosen. With these elements used together, those most inspired to develop their calligraphic abilities, can be sure to see the best results of their work.
About the Author
Kathryn Dawson writes articles about Mappamundi, an online retailer of quality unusual gifts that is continually adding new and fascinating original items from its extensive stock. Aiming to provide an exceptional level of service with a uniquely personal touch, Mappamundi has become one of the UK's leading suppliers of quirky gifts, offering everything from writing paper, photo frames to calligraphy pens and calligraphy ink which are selected from quality and trusted suppliers.
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