Ames' Alphabets : adapted to the use of architects, engravers, engineers, artists, sign painters, draughtsmen, &c.
Oblong quarto; (3), 35pp printed recto-only. Good to Very Good condition with sunning to spine and half-inch loss to both ends, still covered by the cloth turn-in. Patterned endpapers; creasing to front flyleaf and old recipe for mixing copper sulphate tipped to pastedown. An uncommon book of alphabets by D. T. Ames, regarded as one of the greatest American penmen and more commonly associated with his contibutions to publications on flourishing and calligraphy. Several of the specimens in this book, including the "Marking Alphabet" and initials letters are reproduced in the calligraphy books 'Real Pen-Work Self-Instructor' and 'Gems of Penmanship.' Ames' Alphabets include a handful of plates showing the letters in practical use, suggesting compositions in addition to providing letters and ornaments. The magnified "Sign Painters Letters" are particularly attractive.