Medieval Scribes, Tools, & Practices A collection of authentic medieval tools used in all aspects of the scribe's work. This collection, originally organized by Alan Cole, belongs to the Museum of Writing Research Collection, Institute of English Studies, University of London, and is housed in the Senate House Library.

Title Quill Pens

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Brief description Alan Cole: “There were many bird’s quills used in the Medieval period–pictured here are some modern examples of most common quills. From left to right: Larks quill for dusting of superfluous gold leaf after gilding; Peacock's feather—a little soft, but workable; Raven’s feather; Brown Stalk; White stork; and Goose, possibly the most popular. Swan feathers were also used.” The quill pen was one of the most popular writing implements used through the Medieval era and beyond. Introduced around the 7th century, its influence can be traced all the way to modern writing. To create a quill pen, the scribe would select a feather, such as goose or peacock, and then cut back the plume and barbs on the underside of the feather. Right-handed scribes favored the upper feathers of the left wing for their curvature. The feather was then placed upright in hot sand, which served to strengthen the barrel of the feather and render it both more flexible and durable for writing . Once cooled, the outer membrane and pith within the barrel could be easily removed. The tip of the feather would then be sliced at an angle, a slit made in the hollow allowing ink to be stored and flow smoothly to the tip. The nib was then shaped by cutting away the corners on either side of the slit; that shape would then affect the appearance of the script. The result is a split nib design similar to that of a modern fountain pen. The scribe could easily re–sharpen the quill with a pen knife for continued use. The quill’s durability, flexibility, and efficacy for holding ink made it the writing implement of choice through the 19th century until the introduction of the steel dip nib. For a medieval description of how to create a quill pen, see Cennino Cennini’s 15th century work “Il Libro Dell’Arte.”For more information on medieval writing instruments and methods of production, visit Diane Tillotson’s website on medieval writing: http://medievalwriting.50megs.com/tools/quill.htm Diane Tillotson, “The Quill Pen,” from “Medieval Writing: history, heritage, and data source,” Last updated March 6, 2014. http://medievalwriting.50megs.com/tools/quill.htm

Contributor: Mitchell Erzinger

Contribution date: Winter 2014