The Fat and the Lean: American Wood Type of the 19th Century

This exhibition combines the extensive and recently acquired Morgan collection of 19th century type with several related collections already at MAH. View a pictorial history of the evolution of type from old style "lean" letters to a proliferation of "fat" and specialized letters known as "artistic printing."

Included are posters, specimens of printing type and ornaments, and handbills. The major style families (such as sans serif, gothic, Egyptian, and fat face) are shown and identified.

Catalogue

Printer's Hat