Grotesques are the first sans serif typefaces, which appeared in the 19th century for advertising and posters. Their name comes from the surprise, even mockery, these letters without serifs provoked at the time, as they were considered strange. They keep a slight contrast and some irregularities in their design.
Where to see it
Akzidenz-Grotesk, released by the Berthold foundry in 1898, and Franklin Gothic, designed by Morris Fuller Benton in 1902, are the best-known examples. They can be found on old posters, in newspaper headlines and with many contemporary designers who appreciate their somewhat raw character.
Why this detail matters
Grotesques paved the way for all modern sans serif typefaces:
- They mark the moment when typefaces without serifs entered everyday use;
- Their small irregularities give them a warmth and personality that more recent sans serifs do not always have;
- They are the direct origin of neo-grotesques such as Helvetica.
Related term
Neo-grotesques are the heirs of grotesques, which they rationalized in the 1950s.