tipomap.lat

Padova is a variable type superfamily whose roots lie in the 15th century Venetian calligraphic tradition. It translates the fluidity of pen-written forms into a contemporary typographic language, balancing historical depth with modern functionality.

Based on a hypothetical transition from handwritten manuscripts to early Roman metal movable type, Padova poses an exploration of an alternative typographic evolution. This approach invites reflection on a suggestive question: if Nicolas Jenson had faced different technological constraints, would his typographic choices have taken a different configuration?

The family consists of three subfamilies - Padova Text, Padova and Padova Display - each with roman and italic versions, which together total 36 styles. Their variable version allows fine adjustments in typographic contrast.