A vintage line art illustration featuring hands holding a letter or manuscript, rendered in cross-hatch style and isolated on a transparent background.
This image is part of a curated collection that showcases a diverse range of vintage document designs and typographic art, featuring intricate letterhead logos, ornate receipts, and decorative printed overlays. Each piece captures the elegance of historical print styles—from German heraldic flourishes and British typographic traditions to antique invoices and lottery tickets. Perfect for design enthusiasts, crafters, and historians alike, these images offer a nostalgic glimpse into the artistry of printed communication, blending handwritten and printed text with ornamental details and transparent overlays.
The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as 'catalogs' and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we're very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
A detailed blue scalloped border design, ideal for certificates, diplomas, or vintage documents. The intricate pattern adds an elegant and classic touch, perfect for formal or decorative uses.
A vintage line art illustration of hands holding a drooping scroll, isolated in PNG format. Perfect for historical, educational, and decorative designs.
A vintage green border with detailed patterns, ideal for certificates, diplomas, and formal documents. The intricate design provides a timeless and elegant appeal.
The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as 'catalogs' and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we're very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
A vintage illustration of hands holding a long, unfurling scroll or manuscript, isolated and perfect for historical and literary-themed designs.
A green scalloped border with ornate detailing, perfect for certificates, awards, and decorative documents. The intricate design offers a touch of elegance and timeless beauty.
Our supporters and members help us continue collecting and restoring these wonderful pieces of art for the modern creator
While a lot of the library is available for free, some is kept behind closed dusty doors only to be accessed by our lovely members.