Why is shellac used in some inks? How is pounce used? What modern scripts are direct descendants of chancery cursive? Where is the Central Lettering Record? Here is a comprehensive, easy-to-use companion to the art of calligraphy that will answer a multitude of questions for expert and novice alike. It defines words that often appear without explanation in how-to manuals, clarifies terms that have been confused through misuse and ambiguity, and encourages experiment. Over 1,500 entries cover a complete range of topics, from writing surfaces, materials and tools, to prominent figures in the development of calligraphy; from the history of ancient scripts and the derivation of letters, styles, movements and related decorative arts, to descriptions of inks, letter structures and composition. Illumination is discussed in depth, with entries on pigments, brushes, gilding and design patterns. Fully illustrated and supplemented by a timeline showing the historical development of scripts, the dictionary also lists the names and addresses of suppliers of calligraphic books and materials; societies and publications; and museums and libraries with important manuscript collections. This is the indispensable reference book for all scribes, illuminators, lettering artists and graphic designers. - Dust jacket.