Initial letter V with putti 1533 - 1540

This woodcut by Heinrich Vogtherr the Elder, dated 1533-1540, is an example of the Renaissance interest in decorative letterforms. It features a stylized letter "V" ornamented with a playful putti and a detailed floral pattern. The intricate design and the use of hatching techniques lend a sense of depth and detail to the small-scale artwork. This piece demonstrates the German artist's mastery of the woodcut medium and the period's appreciation for intricate decorative motifs. The work, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases the artistry of the Renaissance era and the development of the "V" as a symbol of victory.