Athelas

Overview:
Athelas is a serif typeface known for its classic, elegant design and high readability. With roots in traditional typography, it combines the refined qualities of older serif fonts with contemporary proportions, making it suitable for both print and digital use, particularly in body text and long-form content.

History:
Athelas was designed by the British type designer Joel Makower in 2009. The typeface was commissioned by The Guardian, a leading British newspaper, to be used for its print and digital publications. Makower sought to create a typeface that could provide a sense of tradition and seriousness while still feeling fresh and modern. Athelas was designed with readability in mind, particularly for news articles and other editorial content, and it became the signature typeface of The Guardian's print editions.

Characteristics:

• Design: Athelas features sharp, refined serifs and high contrast between thick and thin strokes. The letters have a slightly condensed structure with open counters, making it highly legible even at small sizes. The overall look is traditional yet modern, with subtle quirks that give it character.

• Usage: Ideal for editorial content, newspapers, and books. Its readability at small sizes and elegant appearance make it a popular choice for long-form text and professional communications.

• Attributes: Clean, sophisticated, and highly legible with a strong presence. Its serif details add a sense of authority and formality, while its modern proportions make it versatile for both digital and print applications.