Culture
Words by Dan Reynolds
Specimen Book of Typefaces, Stempel Haas, 1975
This typeface specimen published in 1975 by Stempel & Haas is an example of how the alliance of content and form can result into a beautiful demonstration of ergonomics.
This typeface specimen published in 1975 by Stempel & Haas is an example of how the alliance of content and form can result into a beautiful demonstration of ergonomics.
Even though the specimen is not an exemple of originality, as most of its typefaces are the usual suspects of the time, the design of the book is worth a second glance.
This specimen was designed with a specific attention given to its use. The book is legible, of a medium size, OTA bound and is therefore easy to manipulate without crunching the binding. In the mid-70s, we are half-way between lead type and photocomposition, which means that if anyone needs a letter, he will need to take a picture of it—a much easier task when a book can open completely. In this sense, this specimen ensures optimal comfort to the user.
Another aspect of the ergonomics of the book is the choice of the letters shown: we notice that there are very few descenders in the typefaces displayed. This brings uniformity to the composition and balance to the lines, making this book a concrete object as much in 3D as in 2D. This perfect balance between all its elements was not evident only to Production Type. In 2014, Commercial Type released its Specimen of Typefaces (20110-2014): its design is a direct reference to our 1975 specimen from Stempel & Haas, as their format and volume are exactly the same.
Documents: Biblioteca Produzione
