Unusual calligrapher Thomas Schweiker and his talents (6 photos)

“Why are you writing like a chicken with its paw!” Such comments are not uncommon for pupils and students. Even with two completely healthy hands, students manage to write in such a way that poor teachers are not able to make out the ornate patterns of their charges.





This man proved that having not only understandable, but impeccable calligraphic handwriting is easy. You don't even need your hands for this.



Self-portrait

Thomas Schweiker was born in 1540 in the German city of Schwäbisch Hall in the family of baker Hans, who later took a position in the city council, and his wife Dorothea. Thomas became the sixth child in the family. There were eight of them in total, all completely healthy. But Thomas was unlucky: the boy was born without arms.



Amniotic band syndrome

The cause of this serious pathology was probably amniotic band syndrome. They are fibrous threads that appear in the amniotic sac. This is a soft tissue formation stretched between the two walls of the uterus. In most cases, they do not harm the fetus or interfere with normal labor, but Thomas' case was an exception.



However, the pathology did not prevent the boy from not only learning to take care of himself in everyday life, but also from going to school. The child held the feather with his feet. And soon he not only mastered reading and writing, but also, through long training, acquired an amazing calligraphic handwriting.



Memorial plaque in Schwäbisch Hall

Schweiker received the position of city clerk. Spectators came from far and wide to see him in action and then purchase his creations. The man developed his talents to such a level that he turned the process of creating complex documents into some kind of magical act.

Royalty also came to admire the process. In particular, Emperor Maximilian II. The calligrapher's work was appreciated, and in 1584 Thomas was invited to the court in Heidelberg, where he stayed until 1598, working as an artist.



Memorial plaque to Thomas Schweiker in St Michael's Church, Schwäbisch Hall

The unusual calligrapher died in 1602 after a short illness. It is noteworthy that Schweiker personally prepared his death certificate 10 years before. The document, as well as the works of the amazing master, are exhibited in the Church of St. Michael in Schwäbisch Hall, where Thomas found his final refuge.