About Quills and Calligraphy Masterclass
Writing with a quill on vellum (calfskin) is a heritage craft that has been practiced by scribes for centuries. Join world-renowned professional calligrapher and illuminator, Patricia Lovett MBE, for a day of learning how to write Bâtarde from mediaeval books. This is the writing style used in the manuscripts of Christine de Pisan seen in our recent exhibition, Medieval Women: In Their Own Words. You’ll cut a quill from a feather of a swan’s wing, and use it to write a name in this style with the quill on a piece of vellum you have prepared yourself.
Your support
The British Library is a charity. Your support helps us open up a world of knowledge and inspiration for everyone. Please consider adding a donation to your basket.
More information
About the tutor
Patricia Lovett MBE is a world-renowned scribe and illuminator who received a National Honour for calligraphy and heritage crafts. She creates artworks on vellum, using gold, colour and quills. She has written extensively on calligraphy and illumination, including The Art and History of Calligraphy, and The Art of the Scribe (spring 2025) published by the British Library. Patricia co-curated the Calligraphy Today (2012-13) exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum, and teaches at a range of institutions including Harvard University and the University of London.
About the day
Previous skills, knowledge or experience
None required.
Equipment and Materials
All tools, materials and equipment will be provided.
Facilities and refreshments
Tea and coffee will be provided at the start of the session. Please email adultlearning@bl.uk to discuss your dietary requirements.
Accessibility
Please email adultlearning@bl.uk to discuss your accessibility requirements.
You might also like
- Years 1–2
Sensory Storytelling: Unearthed
FreeA storytelling session engaging the youngest learners and those with SEND through sensory activities inspired by our current Unearthed exhibition. - Years 1–6
Self-Guided Visit: Story Explorers
FreeA self-guided opportunity for schools to discover our riotous new hands-on exhibition taking a fresh look at the Library’s collection. 
Tech Bros, Proud Boys and Christian Dads
FreePart of "America Now! Conversations in the Contemporary USA"