Serif Normal Ohbal 7 is a bold, normal width, high contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Schorel' by insigne (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, book covers, editorial, posters, packaging, formal, authoritative, traditional, literary, text emphasis, classic readability, print presence, editorial tone, bracketed, ball terminals, oldstyle numerals, ink-trap feel, robust.
A robust serif with strongly bracketed serifs and a pronounced thick–thin modulation. The letterforms show compact, sturdy proportions with rounded joins and a slightly soft, ink-friendly finish that keeps counters open despite the dark color. Serifs are substantial and often flare gently into stems, and several lowercase forms (notably a, e, g, y) use ball terminals that add warmth to the otherwise formal structure. Numerals appear oldstyle with varied heights and some descenders, reinforcing a classic text rhythm.
Works well for headlines and short-to-medium passages where a dark, confident serif is desired—such as editorial layouts, book covers, cultural posters, and premium packaging. It also suits pull quotes and section openers where oldstyle numerals and strong contrast can add typographic flavor without sacrificing readability.
The overall tone is traditional and authoritative, with an editorial seriousness suited to established institutions. Subtle softness in terminals and the lively oldstyle figures keep it from feeling austere, giving it a bookish, literary character rather than a purely corporate one.
The design appears intended as a conventional, text-oriented serif with extra weight for impact, pairing classical proportions and oldstyle detailing with a sturdy build that prints with a rich, even presence. Ball terminals and bracketed serifs suggest a goal of combining tradition with approachable warmth.
In text, the weight produces a dense typographic color and strong word shapes, while the moderate x-height and generous interior spaces help maintain clarity. Curves are full and slightly squarish at stress points, and the variable character widths create a familiar, classical cadence across lines.