02.12.10
The number 2 seems to be the most frequent figure I post for End Grain. This particular 2 came from the modern poster lot, though it’s smaller than the majority and only has one or two matching figures that go along with it. It’s a variant on the really bulky industrial style 2 that I posted way back at the end of December. The outer corners are rounded while the counters are squared off.
Hitting this block with a splash of water produced this odd effect with the black ink. Some places pulled off, revealing more of the red block. Yet again, a red numeral! The two toned, spotted ink is a really unique attribute, I’m glad I could document it in this state, before it gets used and cleaned more thoroughly. It really is a brilliant texture.
Style: Unknown Gothic
Style first appeared: Unknown
Size: 35 pica
Manufacturer: Unknown
Manufacturing Method: Pantograph
Is it part of a complete set? No
4 Comments on “Spotted 2”
Leave a Comment
Related Posts
Glenn
I think it was once common practice to pull a red proof with a brand-new set of type. The residual tint provided better contrast as the type aged and helped the press operator easily spot any problems with toning/coverage.
02-14-10 » 9:59 am »
Bethany Heck
Wow Glenn, I did not know that! That is really fascinating. So did they clean the red ink off completely, or did they leave it on the block?
02-14-10 » 12:21 pm »
Glenn
Yes, they are completely cleaned of ink, but the tint remains embedded deep in the grain of the wood, especially with oil-based inks. I also see green type a lot: usually a Martha-Stewarty sea foam shade.
02-14-10 » 7:45 pm »
Glenn
The ink is cleaned off the block, but leaves pigment deep in the grain of the wood. Occasionally I also see wood type that has been proofed in green — usually a Martha-Stewarty sea foam green.
02-14-10 » 11:22 pm »