Darren Leader Studio

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Rewind Discoveries: Rudolf Koch

The research process for Logo Rewind frequently uncovers medieval logo designs and history – the latest is Rudolf Koch, Letterer and Type Designer from the early 20th century. His typography is exemplary, but it appears that he also had a fascination for ancient signs, similar to my own.

Getting to know Rudolf’s work has been transformational for my research, and has revealed some striking connections. Firstly, he applied his mark with medieval characteristics.

He also wrote, ‘The Book of Signs’ (1923), his own investigation into the meaning of signs from the Middle Ages, and it featured numerous examples used by working people and religious institutions. Fortunately, I’ve managed to find an original copy from Ebay.

Rudolf’s interest did not end there. He encouraged each member of his circle of craftsman to follow a similar medieval design aesthetic and design their own mark – one of his colleagues was Berthold Wolpe, who famously went on to create the typeface Albertus and design book covers for Faber.

My work on Logo Rewind continues.