Priori Typeface

This typeface is not new, but it's still worth a post. Priori is a logical progression from Mason, a typeface Jonathan Barnbrook designed about ten years ago. Where mason was designed purely for display purposes and featured only caps, Priori includes lowercase, companion serif and san serif versions, alternates, and according to its creator, it's shooting for text face status. I bold claim from a designer who loves to wear his influences on his sleeves and who has little use for typography that aspires to be 'neutral' or 'transparent'.

Like many of Barnbrooks designs, Priori is based on his interest in British typography from the early 20th Century. It is inspired by the work of many British typographers, such as Eric Gill and Edward Johnston. But it also embraces all of the signage and lettering that Branbrook observes in the streets, cathedrals and public buildings of his London neighborhood. This mixing of native influences with a contemporary pop culture intent is what gives Barnbrooks types a distinct and unique flavor. Like its creator, Priori is one of a kind.

Foundry: Emigre, www.emigre.com
Designers: Jonathan Barnbrook and Marcus Leis Allion
Aesthetic Production: Marcus Leis Allion greatly aided by insights and assistance from Zuzana Licko.





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