Encompassing a wide range of calligraphy in many languages and hands, or styles, this book presents a visual treasury of works by 100 contemporary scribes, all of whom were either born in New York or studied or worked in the city. From English and its related Romance languages to a wide range of Asian and Middle Eastern alphabets and nonalphabetic characters, the more than 550 examples of beautiful writing create a rich visual smorgasbord. Traditional uses of hand-lettered calligraphy are shown, including event invitations and envelopes, certificates and awards, and quotes and sayings framed as artwork. The examples also include contemporary applications and nontraditional forms such as graffiti and experimental calligraphy that is not formed from readable characters. All are hand-wrought and human-made, using pointed or broad-edged pens, whether quill or steel, or a brush or other simple tool.