Letter X c. 1645 - 1650

Jeremias Falck created this rendering of the letter X with engraving techniques, sometime in the 17th century. Falck lived through the Thirty Years' War, a devastating conflict driven by religious and political turmoil, which shaped the socio-political landscape of Europe. Consider that in Falck’s time, literacy and access to ornate, decorative lettering like this was largely confined to the upper classes. Letter X, with its elaborate swirls and flourishes, embodies the era's emphasis on ornamentation, and perhaps, exclusivity. The Baroque style, characterized by its opulence, also reflected the complex interplay between power, religion, and identity during the period. As we gaze upon this letter, we are reminded of the intricate ways in which symbols, even alphabets, can be imbued with social meaning and cultural significance. It invites us to reflect on the historical contexts that influence our understanding of even the simplest forms.