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Visual & Motion Designer at Fontfabric Type Foundry
read moreWhat Are Uncial Fonts?
Uncial fonts hold a special place in the history of Western typography. While we often associate them with display type today, they were actually the go-to for everyday writing back in the 3rd to 8th centuries. Picture this: scribes in the Roman Empire meticulously crafting manuscripts with rounded, bold letters that stood out on parchment. These letterforms were designed for both beauty and practicality – they needed to be readable and efficient for writing lengthy texts. Uncial’s clear, clean, and timeless aesthetic quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple in the world of handwritten communication.
However, as typography evolved and more legible forms like Carolingian Minuscule emerged, uncial scripts gradually transitioned into a more specialized role. Today, modern revivals of uncial fonts are often used for display purposes, capturing a classic yet distinctive feel in headlines, logos, and other design elements. It’s a fascinating example of how a once-ubiquitous script has been reimagined and repurposed for the modern design landscape.
Brevis: Our Modern Take on Uncial Fonts
Why Uncial Fonts Still Hit Different?
Fast forward to today, and uncial fonts are still having a moment. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, or maybe it’s just the fact that these fonts look so good. Uncial fonts have this natural flow that makes them perfect for designs that want to feel a little classic, but not outdated. You’ll spot them in everything from fantasy book covers to branding for indie businesses that want that “established but fresh” feel. It’s like bringing a piece of history into the now.
Meet Brevis: Uncial Style, Modern Twist
Enter Brevis, our latest display typeface that’s all about capturing those uncial roots with a bold, fresh look. Named after the Latin word for “short” (shoutout to its punchy design), Brevis brings in the iconic rounded shapes of uncial scripts but gives them a clean, modern spin. Inspired by the look of ancient manuscripts, but super versatile for today’s designs—this typeface is your go-to for anything that needs a strong, impactful vibe.
Get Brevis for Free
Brevis was crafted by Stefan Yatanski, who brought this vision to life with a ton of historical inspiration and a little help from the team. Shoutout to Plamen Motev for his guidance and Viktoria Usmanova for adding those final touches. It took over two years and a lot of perfecting to get Brevis to where it is today, and it’s ready to make a statement in your designs.
Why Brevis Stands Out?
Whether you’re designing a poster, an editorial title, or need a bold display font for digital, Brevis brings that sweet spot of historic-meets-modern. Its calligraphic curves and open shapes mean it doesn’t just look good; it also reads well. Think of it as vintage vibes with today’s functionality.
In a Nutshell
Uncial fonts like Brevis remind us that good design is always in style. They bring a classic feel to modern projects without looking outdated. So, if you’re after something that stands out and stays timeless, Brevis might just be your new fave.
