Letter R met kroon en scepter op een kussen 1639 - 1643

Editor: This is "Letter R met kroon en scepter op een kussen", or "Letter R with crown and scepter on a pillow," by Claude Mellan, dating from 1639 to 1643. It’s an engraving, so the lines are incredibly fine. There's almost a regal air about it, yet something about seeing a single letter elevated feels a bit absurd. What do you make of this piece? Curator: Ah, the alphabet elevated to high art! There's a whimsy to it, certainly, a kind of playful self-importance. I like how Mellan uses just a few elegantly curved lines to create texture and depth; look closely at that cushion, almost squishy. The Baroque loved drama and elaborate details, didn't it? What is particularly striking is, he is trying to ennoble typography. A fascinating endeavour, do not you think? Editor: Absolutely! The detail is incredible, and ennobling the alphabet is a unique goal. Is there a cultural context here that I am missing? Curator: Yes, indeed! Consider that typography in the 17th century was much more than just communication; think of ornate illuminated manuscripts! This image reflects both, playing with symbolism of power, royalty, letters… Mellan isn't just presenting a letter "R"; he is presenting the *idea* of "R." Do you see the slight humor? A letter that is also art that is also a symbol that is also a letter. And he almost doesn't use any strokes to compose the form of letter! Just gorgeous! Editor: Now that you mention it, there's almost something tongue-in-cheek about the letter posing with a crown. Like it is taking itself incredibly seriously, which I guess letters should do since words would have no power. Curator: Precisely! It is a magnificent and curious piece and yes, those Baroque artists... quite a sense of humour, even as they crafted their serious masterworks. Editor: I never considered letters as having such symbolic power or personality. Thanks. I definitely learned to see this in a new, well, light. Curator: My pleasure. Now you have opened a door into new possible appreciation; I suggest we step inside.