The title of this piece is the original name of the C-shaped time signature which we equate with 4/4, or common time. Yes, the C is actually a holdover from 700+ years ago. In those days, during the development of written beat and measure, they used a full circle (O) to denote 3/4 or any division of time by 3, which they called "tempus perfectus." So naturally, "tempus imperfectus" refers to divisions of time by 2 or 4. They used a half-circle, which we denote as a C.

This drawing is actually an album cover idea I had in early December last year -- which I hope to use one day when I make my own takes on medieval songs and hymns. I have my voice, a recorder, a harp and a drum (the exact same one as in the drawing, I might add), to use as instruments befitting the period. One day... I hope...

Sketchbook as always. I spent this afternoon just drawing and finishing this, and I'm glad to share it with all of you.

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  Tempus Imperfectum ~2021 ver.

  by Troisnyx

  Illustration

  409 Views

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