Letter I in een geornamenteerde omlijsting 17th century

This 17th-century anonymous print, "Letter I in een geornamenteerde omlijsting," is a prime example of a decorative initial letter, a common design element in printed books and manuscripts of the time. The artwork features an elaborate, swirling floral pattern that surrounds a large capital "I," creating a visually captivating frame. The intricate details, including leaves, tendrils, and small flowers, evoke a sense of organic growth and are characteristic of the highly ornate decorative styles popular in the 17th century. These decorative initials, often referred to as "flourishes", served not only as decorative elements but also as a means of guiding the reader's eye through the text.