Contemporary Illumination for the Calligrapher and Artist
Contemporary Illumination for the Calligrapher and Artist is a practical guide to applying traditional manuscript gilding and painting methods to contemporary lettering and artwork. It covers step-by-step gilding, troubleshooting, and more advanced techniques including manuscript gesso and shell gold.
At a glance
- Explains how medieval manuscript illumination techniques can be adapted for contemporary lettering, paintings and drawings.
- Includes illustrated instructions for gilding and painting with readily available products.
- Covers troubleshooting and, for experienced practitioners, making and using manuscript gesso and shell gold.
- Discusses painting on gold and combining flat and raised gilding.
Reference price: $95.00
Price checked: 13 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines step-by-step practical instruction with coverage of traditional materials and methods.
- The range from basic gilding to shell gold and raised gilding can serve both newcomers and more experienced artists.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | Crowood Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 1 November 2024 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 176 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0719844282 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0719844287 |
| Weight listed | 907 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 21.49 x 1.78 x 26.01 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Calligraphers and artists interested in adding gold leaf and illumination to lettering or artwork.
- Beginners seeking guided gilding instruction as well as experienced practitioners exploring traditional manuscript materials.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a general calligraphy workbook rather than instruction focused on illumination, gilding and related painting techniques.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
90% 90% - 4 stars
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Customer feedback describes the book as detailed and outstanding, with particular appreciation for its coverage of gilding techniques. The ratings are strongly positive overall, though aggregate scores do not explain individual experiences. The reported focus on detailed content is relevant for buyers looking for instruction rather than a general survey of calligraphy.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the content as detailed and praise its coverage of gilding techniques.
Frequently asked questions
What techniques does this book cover?
The listing describes gilding and painting instructions, troubleshooting, manuscript gesso and shell gold, painting on gold, and flat and raised gilding.
Is it suitable for beginners?
The description presents step-by-step instruction for novices, while also including more advanced guidance on making and using manuscript gesso and shell gold.
Can the techniques be used for contemporary artwork?
The book explains traditional manuscript techniques and how they can be applied to contemporary lettering, paintings and drawings.
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