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Hot Type: Stilla

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[Ed. Note: PRINT is expanding its “Hot Type” coverage online, where every two weeks, we will review anything that's underused, under the radar, but worthy of report. We're launching with two headline faces this month, but the series will cover both text and display type.]

Stilla by François Boltana, published by Elsner+Flake, 1973

Stilla is a headline typeface for anyone waiting for Poster Bodoni to shrug off its restrained precision and get a little funky. Remaining true to its Fat Face brethren (e.g. Normande, Falstaff), Stilla is primarily defined by thick verticals, high contrast, and a self-assured boldness. But beyond that, it takes its solo show on the road, ’70s style—bombastic ball terminals dance; a saucy, come-hither ampersand beckons; and flamboyant characters swoon and groove (especially check out the capital C, E, K, T, X, and Z). And don't miss the opening act: absolutely outrageous old-style numerals. Stilla's inherent elegance complements its exaggerated eccentricities, like a child of a truly righteous era.
STEPHEN COLES and ANNA MALSBERGER

Stephen Coles is an editor at the online journal Typographica. Anna Malsberger is a filmmaker and designer for PBS's American Experience.

Want more "Hot Type"? Read our reviews of Tourette and FB Juliana, and share your opinions about type in our forums.