The Stuart typeface possesses the general forms and proportions of a 15th century Venetian kind. Matthieu Cortat designed it with a calligraphic reference in mind giving it a classic, regular sobriety. Its general appearance is nonetheless resolutely contemporary. Its italic is inspired by the first italics of Alde Manuce and Francesco Griffo: barely slanted, its axis of inclination varies only slightly. Stuart is available in three weights, along with their corresponding italics.
A bookish body type, it is available in a number of optical bodies for increased legibility. Stuart Titling (for sizes larger than 14 points) is narrower, its downstrokes and upstrokes are more stated. As for Stuart Text it suits mid sized bodies between 9 and 14 points. Stuart Caption, larger and of solid build, is for use with bodies of 9 points and under.