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Hanoi Cartel

Hanoi Cartel is a type foundry based in Hanoi, Vietnam, dedicated to crafting soulful and culturally resonant typefaces. The foundry places a strong emphasis on extensive language support, aims to make its typefaces accessible and versatile for diverse linguistic needs.Deeply rooted in Vietnam’s visual history, Hanoi Cartel draws inspiration from two opposite yet influential design traditions of Vietnamese typography in the 20th century:
  • The bold, assertive lettering styles of Vietnamese communist-era propaganda posters , which is very well-known for their powerful visual impact and ideological clarity.
  • The intricate, handcrafted lettering of advertising boards in southern Vietnam before 1975, which reflect a more commercial, artisanal aesthetic with very creative solution for diacritics.
By appreciating these visual legacies, we strive to create typefaces that are not only functional but also rich in narrative and cultural depth.