A facsimile of a 1783 specimen from an unknown French typefounder!

This publication marks the first time this rare French provincial type specimen has been reproduced. Each of its 112 pages was scanned in high resolution from an original copy produced in 1738; the images have been carefully cleaned up (but left un-retouched) to preserve the integrity of the printing.

The collective specimen showcases a striking range of 18th-century typefaces, many traced back to a notable Parisian engraver whose work has curiously escaped historical attention. The letterforms waver between mechanical precision and human irregularity—a tension that resonates with contemporary design.

An introductory note provides context for type specialists, while offering enthusiasts a deeper appreciation of this overlooked typographic archive. The gilded border on the cover was reconstructed in period style, using a selection of ornaments from the facsimile.

A gilded border decorates the front cover, and is created à la mode of the time, from glyphs drawn from typefaces featured in the facsimile.

Introduction by Philippe Blanc

Published by Fontegrâce, 2023
Introduction in French and English; facsimile in French
Printed in a limited edition of 180 hand-numbered and signed copies

Softcover, 160 pages, b&w, 5 × 8.25 inches

ISBN: 978–2‑9587511–0‑4