At what angle should one hold the pen when writing Italic lowercase letters?

The most proper angle for holding the pen when writing Italic lowercase letters is indeed 45 degrees. This angle is ideal because it allows for a comfortable and fluid motion of the wrist and fingers, which is crucial for creating the characteristic slanted strokes of italic calligraphy.

At a 45-degree angle, the nib of the pen engages the paper in a way that allows for optimal ink flow while also ensuring that the letter forms maintain their distinct elegance. This angle helps in achieving the right degree of slant in the letters and supports the formation of the clean, sweeping curves and sharp points that are emblematic of Italic script.

Additionally, maintaining this angle facilitates the proper application of pressure, where strokes can be varied between thick and thin, contributing to the overall aesthetic quality of the writing. In contrast, holding the pen at angles that are either too shallow or too steep can hinder the execution of these essential features, resulting in a less effective representation of Italic handwriting.