Serif Normal Esba 9 is a regular weight, normal width, high contrast, italic, normal x-height font.
Keywords: book italics, editorial design, magazine typography, invitations, quotations, classic, literary, refined, formal, editorial, editorial emphasis, classic elegance, formal voice, typographic refinement, bracketed serifs, calligraphic, diagonal stress, tapered strokes, lively rhythm.
A high-contrast italic serif with sharp, tapered terminals and bracketed serifs that read as finely cut rather than chunky. The italic angle is pronounced and consistent, with calligraphic stroke modulation and diagonal stress evident in rounded forms. Capitals are stately and slightly narrow, while the lowercase shows a fluid rhythm with gently varied widths and distinct entry/exit strokes. Numerals follow the same elegant, slanted construction, with thin hairlines and crisp finishing details.
Well-suited for book and longform editorial italics, including emphasis, citations, and pull quotes where an articulate, high-contrast italic is desired. It also fits formal communication such as invitations, programs, and cultural branding applications that benefit from a classic serif voice.
The overall tone is cultured and traditional, with a distinctly literary, old-world refinement. Its energetic italic movement adds a touch of sophistication and ceremony, suggesting formality without feeling rigid.
The design appears intended as a conventional text serif italic with heightened contrast and a calligraphic lean, balancing readability with a more expressive, refined texture for emphasis and display within editorial systems.
In text, the strong contrast and brisk serifs create a bright page color and a crisp sparkle, especially at larger sizes. The italic forms are expressive but controlled, making emphasis feel elegant rather than decorative.