Welkomstspel van De Violieren, 1561 1561 - 1562

"Welkomstspel van De Violieren," a 16th-century woodcut, is a charming example of a decorative initial letter, an ornamental detail found in printed books of this period. The piece is a complex design of intertwined floral elements, with a central motif of a crowned V, perhaps a symbol of the Virgin Mary, and a smaller shield with a figure at its center. This design is reminiscent of the intricate botanical and heraldic imagery favored in Renaissance art. The anonymous artist’s work demonstrates the artistry of the early printing press, showcasing meticulous detail and the power of imagery in communication.