This week’s Typography Tuesday: Know You Type Designers: William Caslon I.
William Caslon I
Born 1692 in Worcestershire, England
Died: 1766
Typefaces: Caslon, Pica Roman, Small Pica No. 1, Long Primer No. 2, Great Primer Roman
It’s an old printer’s maxim that “when in doubt use Caslon.” It is impressive that for almost 200 years his typeface has been used as the default font for printers in the English speaking world.
Originally trained as a gunsmith and engraver, William Caslon I opened his own type foundry in 1722; where he developed Hebrew, Arabic and Roman typefaces. The production of his Roman fonts ended the English dependence on Dutch made type. Though not considered an innovator (since his style of fonts were common) his execution and consummate skill as a craftsman are unparalleled. His typefaces were also very popular in America and was used by Mary Katherine Goddard for the printing of the American Declaration of Independence.
For more information:
