Schreibkunst - Schreibmuster oder schones Exempel zum Schreiben - 1649

Writing model or fine example for writing

Germany - 1649 -

(15) c.
In folio oblong - 32.2 X 19 cm. -

MARVELOUS HANDWRITTEN MANUSCRIPT OF THE SEICENTO, IN THE TRADITION OF GERMAN CALLIGRAPHY MANUALS.

Full, complete manuscript, consisting of 30 consecutive pages and bound by hand with an era-appropriate cord.
It contains 12 fascinating and splendid large ornamental initials in volutes, richly decorated in black, brown and red ink.

The text, executed in refined Gothic script, celebrates the art of the "Schreibkunst", presenting it as a foundation of discipline, knowledge, and civil order.
A clearly didactic work, testifying to the centrality of calligraphic education in Protestant and German-speaking Europe of the seventeenth century.

Original single calligraphic sheets from the German-speaking area of the XVII century, especially if characterized by historiated initials and polychrome decorations, generally fall in a range between 800 and 2500 euros, depending on the state of preservation, the completeness of the text, and the quality of execution.

The present manuscript is composed of as many as 15 consecutive sheets and presents itself as COMPLETE.
In addition to the excellent execution quality, it appears repeatedly dated (1649) and signed.
Handmade laid paper, with black and brown iron gall ink, with red decorations.
12 large calligraphic phytomorphic initials, with flourishes and modulated strokes.
With formal Gothic script (FRaktur/Kurrent).

The text, with a moral and educational dedication, extols good handwriting as the foundation of order, honor, and discipline.
The "Schreibmuster" (model sheets) were used as examples for apprentice scribes, officials, and students.
Within Lutheran and Reformed contexts, handwriting took on moral value: graphic clarity as a reflection of inner order.

The large ornamental initials, often influenced by humanistic translation and decorative engravings, attest to the dialogue between graphic art and typography.

The presence of striking polychrome ornamental elements in this manuscript suggests a product of very high quality, intended not only for practical use but also for virtuous demonstration of graphical prowess.

Contemporary handmade binding, with the original hanging cord, 15 consecutive and complete leaves, entirely handwritten.
The manuscript, if acquired, will be kept in a transparent acrylic folder.

Good overall conservation of the manuscript.
Some small marginal paper conservational additions.
Slight central reading crease.
Pages slightly browned with small specks.
The descriptive photographs are slightly blurred and yellowed.
In fact, the text is perfectly legible and consultable.

Excellent and fascinating manuscript, repeatedly signed (certainly by a renowned artist of the period) and dated.
Complete and original in every part.