Lettrine is an ornamental letter used to begin a paragraph or section of text, typically in illuminated manuscripts, early printed books, and modern design contexts. Derived from the French word lettre, meaning letter, lettrines are significantly larger than the surrounding text and often incorporate elaborate decorative elements, such as floral patterns, abstract designs, or figurative illustrations. The use of lettrines dates back to ancient times, with early examples found in Egyptian papyri and Roman inscriptions. However, they became particularly prominent in medieval manuscripts, where they served both aesthetic and functional purposes. Visually, lettrines added beauty and grandeur to the page, reflecting the importance of the text and the skill of the scribe or illuminator. Functionally, they acted as visual cues, helping readers navigate the text by marking the beginning of new sections or paragraphs. The design of lettrines varied widely, ranging from simple enlarged letters to highly intricate compositions that sometimes spanned the entire height of the page. With the advent of printing in the 15th century, lettrines continued to be used in early printed books, often mimicking the style of illuminated manuscripts. In modern typography and graphic design, lettrines, also known as drop caps or initial letters, remain a popular design element, adding visual interest and hierarchy to the page while paying homage to the rich history of the written word.
typography, illuminated manuscripts, graphic design, drop caps, initial letters, medieval art, book design
CITATION : "John Armstrong. 'Lettrine.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=432441 (Accessed on June 06, 2025)"
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