Isabelle Choi

Quince is a revival typeface, an ode to the fables and literature of the mid to late 19th century, intricately set in the timeless elegance of Elzevir. Drawing from the rich archives of Typofonderie, I immersed myself in classic literature such as La Fontaine’s fables, Les Quinze Joyes de Mariage, and Mort d’Alexandre le Grand. These works provided a profound understanding of the Elzevir genre, which captivated France during this era. Further inspiration was gleaned from the Musée de l’Imprimerie in Lyon, where Louis Perrin’s typeface emerged as a pivotal influence. Perrin’s design, imbued with texture revealed a playfulness and dynamism in its letterforms, resonating deeply with my initial subject of wine, its characters and fluidity.

The journey of creating Quince became a sensory dance of balance—melding the dichotomy of hard and soft, sharp and sweet, bold and smooth. This interplay is reflected through the use of angular serifs juxtaposed with graceful curves. Each element enhances the other, culminating in a texture that subtly engages the viewer and reader. Quince is a typeface crafted for long-form text, yet it transforms into a sophisticated presence when scaled up, making it ideal for branding applications. It exudes beauty in both clean, monochromatic palettes and vibrant, colourful schemes. The “black creative” weight of the Quince family offers a playful contrast to its more traditional sibling, adding depth and versatility to its design.

Quince’s design pays homage to the joys of food, wine, and literature. Its elegance and sophistication are matched by its playful nature, making it a versatile choice for a range of applications. The typeface celebrates the rich cultural heritage of 19th-century France, the beauty of the written word and the richness of life.

‍