Serif Normal Kidab 9 is a regular weight, normal width, high contrast, upright, normal x-height font.
Keywords: book text, editorial, magazines, literary titles, branding, classic, literary, refined, formal, text readability, editorial tone, classic authority, refined display, bracketed serifs, flared terminals, calligraphic contrast, open counters, crisp apexes.
This is a high-contrast serif with pronounced thick–thin modulation and bracketed serifs that taper into sharp, slightly flared terminals. Capitals are stately and fairly wide with crisp apexes (notably in A, V, W) and smooth, rounded bowls (B, D, O, Q) that keep counters open. Lowercase shows a traditional text rhythm with a two-storey a and g, a wedge-like ear on g, and sturdy, slightly cupped serifs on stems (h, n, m). Numerals follow the same old-style modeling with strong curves and clear differentiation, maintaining an even color despite the contrast.
It suits long-form reading in books and editorial layouts where a traditional serif voice is desired, and it also performs well for headlines and pull quotes thanks to its sharp, high-contrast detailing. The formal, composed character makes it a strong choice for cultural institutions, publishing brands, and classic-leaning identity systems.
The overall tone is classic and composed, with a bookish elegance that reads as traditional rather than trendy. The sharp, tapered details add a refined, slightly ceremonial feel, while the open shapes keep it approachable in continuous text. It conveys authority and polish without appearing heavy or decorative.
The design appears intended as a conventional text serif with elevated contrast and finely shaped terminals, balancing readability with a more polished, display-friendly finish. Its proportions and detailing suggest a focus on editorial versatility: confident capitals, familiar lowercase forms, and numerals that harmonize with running text.
Stroke endings often narrow to pointed wedges, giving a crisp finish at display sizes, while the text sample shows stable line rhythm and clear word shapes. Diacritics aren’t shown, but the core Latin set in the specimen appears consistent in contrast and serif treatment across cases and figures.