Engross

To copy a document in a formal, ornate way for ceremonial purposes. Today, 'engrossing' connotes the rendering of a certificate or resolution in a 19th century style of lettering, often employing Gothic, Copperplate and Lombardic capitals (sometimes all in the same piece of work). This style is typified by the meticulous work in the Zanerian Manual of Alphabets and Engrossing (1895, 1981). Until the mid-1970s, many Americaln scribes who made their living hand lettering awards called themselves engrossers. Since then, the label 'calligrapher' is much more common. (Rose Folsum)