First trade edition, one of 400 copies. A fine copy.

A first-ever compilation devoted to Alice's calligraphy and drawing. New Yorkers or any of the citys millions of visitors who walked along Madison Avenue in the 60s, 70s and 80s know her masterful posters for the Morgan Library. Scribes in the U.S. and abroad know her through her celebrated workshops. She is Alice Koeth, known professionally simply as Alice, and although she is one of the most respected calligraphers in the world today, relatively few of her works have been published in book form. The vast majority of her graphic output remains unseen and uncollected.

Jerry Kelly has compiled, with Alice's active participation, over 140 illustrations, showing the depth and breadth of her artistry. Jerry's introduction and Donald Jackson's eloquent appreciation set her work in context.

Over a career spanning more than 60 years, Alice's artistry exemplifies taste, technique, wit, and her own unique graphic style. A keen understanding of craft, respect for tools, and interest in historical forms have contributed to her command of various calligraphic styles, written with extraordinary skill. Whether using Coit and Automatic pens or the smallest of Speedball nibs, this versatility enabled her to tackle all manner of calligraphic design problems.

Her work has inspired several generations of calligraphers, and we are eager to share it with you. Alice has opened her own personal archives so, in addition to her mature and later work, the book contains charming early works from the 1950s, as well as several sketches and preliminary layouts which offer a rare glimpse into Alice's working process. The Morgan Library has graciously photographed a dozen of her very special posters from their archives, not seen for decades, especially for this publication.

Over 140 reproductions of Alices work, most in color and many full-page.