Speed and Rhythm

Beautiful 19th-century script calligraphy – and fine penmanship in general – was based on the mastery of rapid, rhythmic, elastic movements: this was the great secret behind high-quality artistic writing.

Today most calligraphers work slowly, but a few cutting-edge scribes are once again emphasizing rhythm and speed. See, for example, this short video by Denis Brown on YouTube (2:10).

Writing contraptions like the one below were generally not recommended by serious teachers of penmanship in the 19th century. The only clear road to success was thought to be: personal instruction from experts, lots of practice (hundreds of hours), and youth (start ’em young).

Despite the silliness of this “Chirographic Vibrator” (more like a large “Calligraphic RUBBER BAND” plus hook), mounted on a “Revolving Writing Cabinet” (containing a scroll), the descriptions are fun, so here they are:

Revolving Writing Cabinet

“Contains a full set of copy lines, comprising books 1, 2, and 3 of the Writing Book Series, mounted on a continuous sheet upon Rollers, so adjusted as to exhibit but one line at a time and in regular succession, by simply turning a knob at the side. It is furnished with Compartments for containing Pens, Inkstand, Pencils, Blotter, and Writing Pad, ruled to fit the Copies. It also contains the Chirographic Vibrator for suspending, balancing and vibrating the Hand in writing; a valuable help in acquiring Movement. A valuable PRESENT to any child at any Season. (Patented June 23, 1885.)”

The Chirographic Vibrator

“For imparting the vibratory [= elastic] movements of Penmanship to the Learner and an aid to Pen Holding. Size 7 x 11 inches. (Patented June 23, 1885.) — This device is the result of accumulated experience in teaching penmanship and puts the learner at once on the road to mastery of this valuable art. — It consists of a metal upright standard terminating in a hook not unlike a shepherd’s crook, from which depends a loop of elastic cord, to the end of which is attached a wooden perch, which is grasped in the hand so as to allow the supporting cord to pass between the fingers, while its near end, projecting from the hand, supports the penholder against the side of the forefinger. A second elastic cord may be attached to the base of the standard and the perch, for securing the projective motion known as Muscular. This is a valuable adjunct to every desk, where writing is taught.”