Lombardic capitals

Lombardic capitals is the name given to a type of decorative uppercase letter used in inscriptions and, typically, at the start of a section of text in medieval manuscripts.

They were used both in illuminated manuscripts and monumental inscriptions, like the bell tower of Santa Chiara, Naples.

[4] A characteristic form of text decoration in manuscripts and early printed books with hand colouring was to use alternating red and blue Lombardic capitals for the start of each successive paragraph.

It was the favorite form selected for initials and versals in manuscripts, which were usually painted in, in colors and gold, the solidity of the bodystrokes making it especially adaptable for this purpose.

At its best this Lombardic letter preserves much of the feeling of the uncials of the sixth and seventh centuries.This typography-related article is a stub.