Harvardtypes

Harvardtypes refers to a classification system used to categorize different historical typesetting styles, primarily associated with the Harvard University Printing Office. This system aims to identify and replicate the distinctive typographic characteristics found in early printed materials produced by or for the university. The classification often focuses on elements such as font choices, letter spacing, line justification, and the overall aesthetic of the page. Researchers and designers utilize Harvardtypes to achieve historical accuracy in reprinting old documents, creating new works with a period feel, or analyzing the evolution of printing techniques.

The concept of Harvardtypes is not a formal, universally adopted standard but rather a descriptive framework that emerges from the study of Harvard's printing legacy. It acknowledges that different printing presses, typographers, and periods within Harvard's history developed unique visual signatures. Understanding these characteristics allows for a more nuanced appreciation of historical typography and its relationship to academic and cultural contexts. The application of Harvardtypes can range from academic research in the history of the book to the design of contemporary materials seeking to evoke a specific historical ambiance. It is a tool for understanding and recreating the visual language of early printed matter.