Manicule
Publishing / 2023
☞ A typographic character that first appeared in the Middle Ages when copyists used them in the margins of manuscripts to emphasize the interest of a passage of text, manicules have continued to evolve over the centuries, their forms and uses evolving with those of printing techniques.
☞ The illustrative and narrative dimension conferred by its design,
this typographic element representing a closed hand with its index finger outstretched, draws its visual richness from the pen and ink strokes used by copyists in medieval times.
☞ In addition to drawing the reader's attention to a textual element, they were also used to distinguish false manuscripts from originals, acting as proof of authenticity to identify the nature of the work concerned. Gradually put aside with the advent of typewriters, their design not allowing them to be sufficiently legible, manicules only reappeared with the progress made in printing techniques in the 20th century.
☞ Repopularized and progressively used in correspondence, signage and advertising via lead type, the manicule gradually became a graphic element in its own right, going beyond its initial function to cover new uses. Losing its strength once again with the arrival of digital media at the dawn of the 21st century, the enrichment of typographic families influenced the use of manicules to the detriment of other typefaces and typographic styles in the hierarchization of information. Still used today in certain editions as a hierarchical marker or graphic sign, the digital equivalent of the manicule is now associated with the mouse-over symbol for hyperlinks.
☞ With the aim of highlighting the graphic richness of these very special hands, this memory game is a fun way of discovering or rediscovering the beauty of these little known signs. Bringing together a selection of 24 maniculas designed in Europe between the 12th and 16th centuries, the game invites players to immerse themselves in these strange hands, with the aim of awakening their curiosity about their shapes and stories. With the aim of preserving the memory of this storied typeface and preventing it from being forgotten, this project is part of a drive to revalorize and bring to the fore past graphic knowledge and content that lacks visibility.
