Vorschrifft, Teutsch, lateinisch, und französischer Schrifften

The Vorschrifft, Teutsch, lateinisch und französischer Schrifften (Model book, German, Latin, and French Scripts) is a real gem of the Augsburg State and City Library. The calligrapher and teacher Hieronymus Tochtermann (1684–1755) created this small masterpiece of calligraphy around 1731/33. The 30 artfully inscribed pages were probably compiled by a wealthy citizen or commissioned as a whole. Thus, the manuscript is not a typical writing master book used to present work samples, but rather a valuable and decorative showcase of the calligrapher's artistry. While the texts, rendered in elaborate forms, offer edifying, thought-provoking, and humorous content, their imaginative design exudes the playful elegance and cheerful lightness of Rococo. Sweeping flourishes and intricate ornaments reveal the master's delight in the skillful handling of his beloved pen. An enchanting piece of 18th-century calligraphy!