Design Quarterly 56: American Wood Type [Rob Roy Kelly]

Design Quarterly 56: American Wood Type by Rob Roy Kelly, No. 56, 1963. Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, USA. 8.5 x 11, pp. 40 plus covers. Design: Rob Roy Kelly.

“The graphic designer, more than anyone else, can be credited for the recent discovery and appreciation of wood type. Its’ scale and wonderfully developed positive and negatives caught his eye, and he found for it, and is still finding, many new forms of expression far removed from those intended for by its originators.” — Rob Roy Kelly

This issue is devoted to Kelly’s extensive research which was first published in DQ in 1963. It soon became material for his pioneering 1969 publication: American Wood Type 1828–1900, Notes on the Evolution of Decorated and Large Types .... “Up until 1963, the research component of Kelly’s work with wood type had been collected only as disparate notes, photocopies, and microfilm of specimen catalogs from archives he had visited. Kelly agreed to write and design an issue of the periodical that would be dedicated to American wood type. The work on the publication revealed his shortcomings and gaps in his own research and led him “to the decision to pursue the research and publish a definitive book on wood types.” — David Shields

Black and white (some maroon) illustrations and research covering: the history, early developments and pioneers; various types of cuts/methods and processes; and letters: ornamental, semi-ornamental, plain, chromatic, foreign, borders, wood accessories and more. A detailed list of references and specimen books at the back. Very good with a small bump to the top of the spine and a hint of wear to the corners.