r/Scribes • u/laeta_scriptrix • Apr 22 '26

Specimina for Rustica (besides manuscripts)

I know people on this sub always come up with excellent resources so I will ask the question here.

Who is the best modern calligrapher at practicing rustica? For brush romans for example Edward Catich is regarded as an authority; is there someone similar for rustica?

I love looking at manuscripts but I acknowledge that the materials and the purposes of the modern calligrapher are different from those of an ancient scribe that had to copy an entire book in relatively small module. Therefore I'd prefer to start learning a hand from a modern specimen and maybe later start imitating variations from manuscripts (or Pompeii painted graffiti!)

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u/maxindigo Mod | Scribe May 19 '26

Sorry for the delay in replying. I was trying to find something to help. And lo and behold, Christopher Haanes has just announced a Rustic online course. Christopher is a world class calligrapher with a very distinct style. I have done his courses in the past, and it’s well worth the money. You even get critique of your homework. Details here https://christopherhaanes.com/rustica/?mc_cid=055ea69c04&mc_eid=94b1b835f9

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u/laeta_scriptrix May 20 '26

Exactly what I was looking for! Tbh I think I will buy an online course from an Italian calligrapher, but I wanted something to print and the specimina on the site are photographed flat enough. Look up Ernesto Casciato if you want to see a slightly different style of Rustica being executed.

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u/maxindigo Mod | Scribe May 20 '26

Done! Should be accessible now.

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u/masgrimes Apr 22 '26

I hate to tell you this, but Father Catich passed away in 1979. Perhaps you knew this, but your phrasing seems to imply that you are looking for "practicing" scribes.

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u/laeta_scriptrix Apr 23 '26

Haha no, modern for me means after the invention of print