Background: Monograms

History of the Monogram

Monogrammed initials date back to the 6th century B.C., according to Cynthia Brumback, author of The Art of the Monogram. During this era, coins were stamped with the rulers initials to add authenticity. King Charlemagne is credited with establishing the monogram as we know it today. His military conquests were publicly marked with Charlemagne’s initials to communicate his power to everyone in the land. Other royalty and military leaders then adopted monogram letters as a symbol of wealth and power. According to Brumback, in the Middle Ages, artists and merchants began adopting the monogram initials to identify their works, and distinguish them from others.

Watch this short video on the artistry of monograms today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=144&v=Bciu_vfRwbg