Gudrun Zapf-von Hesse born in Schwerin, Germany was a renowned type designer, calligrapher, and bookbinder whose work significantly contributed to the book arts throughout her career. She trained in lettering, bookbinding, and typography, influenced by the renowned figures Rudolf Koch and Edward Johnston. Her work focused on traditional techniques while embracing modern type design practices.

After studying at the Städelschule in Frankfurt, she began working as a designer at the Stempel type foundry in the late 1940s. It was here that she developed iconic typefaces such as Diotima, Carmina, and Shakespeare Roman. Her contributions to typography were not limited to typeface creation; she was also a highly regarded bookbinder and master calligrapher. Her deep understanding of book design helped bridge the gap between the artistic and technical aspects of type and book production.

Throughout her life, she collaborated closely with her husband, Hermann Zapf, another influential figure in typography. Together, they were pioneers in the development of modern typefaces and digital typography. Gudrun Zapf-von Hesse was awarded the prestigious Frederic W. Goudy Award in 1991 for her contributions to the field, and she continued to influence typographic design well into her later years. She lived to be 101 years old. (hs)