Serif Normal Tegen 3 is a regular weight, narrow, high contrast, italic, normal x-height font.
Keywords: editorial, book design, magazines, quotations, invitations, elegant, literary, formal, refined, classic, text italic, editorial voice, classic refinement, formal emphasis, calligraphic, bracketed, sharp, tapered, crisp.
This serif italic shows pronounced contrast between thick stems and hairline joins, with crisp, bracketed serifs and tapered terminals that suggest a calligraphic pen influence. Letterforms are notably slender with a forward lean and a rhythmic, slightly lively texture in text. Ascenders are relatively tall, counters are compact, and curves transition into thin strokes with clean, sharp endings; the numerals follow the same high-contrast, old-style-influenced feel.
Well suited to editorial typography such as magazines, book interiors, and long-form quotations where an italic voice is needed. It can also work for formal invitations, cultural programs, and refined branding accents when set at comfortable sizes with enough leading to protect the hairlines.
The overall tone is refined and bookish, balancing traditional formality with the expressive energy of an italic. It reads as polished and editorial, suited to contexts that benefit from a sense of craft and classic sophistication rather than neutrality.
The design appears intended as a classic text italic with a graceful, high-contrast silhouette and traditional serif detailing, aiming to provide an expressive yet disciplined companion voice for reading and emphasis.
In continuous text the narrow proportions and strong contrast create a bright, vertical shimmer, while the italic angle and tapered entry/exit strokes add motion. Capitals feel stately and contained, while lowercase forms maintain a consistent slanted rhythm with delicate hairlines that benefit from adequate size and spacing.