The Greek word kallos means beauty, so calligraphy literally means ‘beautiful writing’. Calligraphy is a form of decorative writing.

Calligraphy has ancient origins and can be found in many various forms across many cultures. Traditionally calligraphy was performed by using a naturally sourced dip pen or a brush. Some ornate examples of calligraphy can be seen in important and sacred texts which were laboriously hand lettered by specialist calligrapher monks. The invention of the printing press largely lead to the extinction of this process in the West.

In the orient calligraphy became high art, with the best calligraphy being ranked alongside the best paintings as treasured cultural expressions. The traditional methods are still practiced in the East, and so their tools including the special brushes, stick inks etc are readily available for purchase, and calligraphy classes are offered by colleges.

Today is the West formal style of calligraphy is done using a fountain pen; commonly for the writing of decorative certificates, such as wedding certificates or college diplomas.