English Roundhand reached the height of popularity between 1720 and 1800s, first in Great Britain during the Industrial Revolution then widely copied and adapted around Europe. It was still written with a quill until the metal nib took the crown in 1820. Universal Penman, George Bickham’s lifetime plates, is one of the best historical sources of Roundhand we see today, where the most beautiful pointed pen works were collected, engraved and printed to the finest quality.

Italian Roundhand (or “Italian” English Roundhand) was the result of a gradual adaption from Italian Bastard, or "bastarde Italienne". English writing masters used Italian Roundhand as an ornamental dedication to the design of business writing. The influential Italian letterform and impressive flourish brought a delicate touch to writing style at the time.