AntiquaSchriften

AntiquaSchriften is a term used in typography to refer to serif typefaces that belong to the Antiqua tradition, as opposed to Fraktur (a form of blackletter). The word is common in German-speaking contexts and is used to describe roman-style fonts designed for the Latin alphabet.

In typographic classification, AntiquaSchriften are characterized by serifs, moderate to high contrast between thick and thin strokes, and an upright or slightly vertical letterform. They are typically associated with readability in body text and are widely used in books, newspapers, and digital interfaces. The term plays a role in debates about typographic standards and legibility, particularly in contrasts with sans-serif and blackletter styles.

History and development: Serif typefaces originated from early Renaissance revivals of classical Roman inscriptions and were refined through the centuries into modern families. In German typography, AntiquaSchriften represent the roman serif tradition in contrast to Fraktur, the blackletter style that predated widespread adoption of Antiqua in many contexts. Over time, numerous serif families evolved, giving rise to the broad range of weights, widths, and ligatures available today.

Characteristics and usage: Typical features include bracketed or wedge-shaped serifs, clear x-heights, and a variety of optical sizes in historical and contemporary designs. AntiquaSchriften remain popular for long-form reading, formal publishing, and interface design where legibility and a traditional aesthetic are valued. They are commonly paired with Sans-Schriften for headings or captions.

Examples: Times New Roman, Garamond, Baskerville, Palatino, Caslon. This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the range of the Antiqua tradition.