Roman Alphabet letter P with Louis XIV decoration 1700 - 1733

This etching by Bernard Picart from the early 18th century is an example of a decorative letterform, a popular genre of the Baroque period. The letter "P" is embellished with intricate, swirling motifs, including stylized flowers, scrolls, and a cherub's head. This type of elaborate ornamentation was commonly associated with Louis XIV's reign, reflecting the grandeur and opulence of the French court. The meticulous detail and bold lines of the engraving highlight Picart's skill as a printmaker. This print, part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, exemplifies the beauty and craftsmanship of decorative letterforms in 18th-century art.