Slab Square Udbes 9 is a regular weight, normal width, low contrast, italic, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Berthold Corporate E' by Berthold and 'Corporate E' and 'Corporate E WGL' by URW Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: editorial text, book typography, magazines, pull quotes, headlines, editorial, classic, bookish, formal, scholarly, readable italic, editorial emphasis, classic revival, sturdy refinement, slab serif, bracketed serifs, calligraphic slant, open apertures, generous spacing.
This italic slab serif shows a steady, even stroke with gentle modulation and clearly bracketed slab serifs that anchor the forms. The italic angle is pronounced and consistent, with calligraphic shaping visible in the curved joins and the flowing entry/exit strokes. Proportions feel traditional: capitals are sturdy and slightly wide, lowercase is compact with a moderate x-height, and counters stay open for readability. Numerals share the same slanted, old-style-influenced rhythm, integrating smoothly with text.
It performs well in editorial environments such as magazine features, book interiors, and long-form articles, where an italic voice is needed for emphasis without losing stability. It also suits pull quotes and refined headlines, especially when a classic, authoritative texture is desired.
The overall tone is literary and editorial, balancing firmness from the slabs with a refined, historical italic cadence. It reads as confident and cultivated rather than loud, suited to contexts where a sense of authority and craft is desired.
The design intent appears to be an italic companion with strong slab support: a readable, text-forward italic that still carries enough character for display emphasis. It aims to combine traditional italic movement with robust serifs for a confident, page-friendly color.
Spacing appears comfortably generous, helping the italic forms avoid collisions in running text. Terminals and serifs keep a crisp, squared-off presence while the curves remain smooth, creating a distinctive mix of solidity and motion.