Artwork

The Letter P (converted to an R)

The Letter P (converted to an R), by Master with the Banderoles, ink, 1468
The Letter P (converted to an R), by Master with the Banderoles, ink, 1468

The Letter P (converted to an R) is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master with the Banderoles. It dates from 1468 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Letter P (converted to an R) is an engraving created by Master with the Banderoles in 1468. It is a small print, roughly the size of a playing card, made on paper using the engraving technique.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a distorted letter 'P' reinterpreted as an 'R'. The deliberate distortion and wobbly lines give the letter an unconventional appearance, suggesting an experimental or playful approach to typography.

Technique & Style

The engraving features cross-hatching, a technique using crisscrossed lines to create shading and depth. The artist employed varying line densities to achieve different tones, rather than relying on solid black areas. This technique contributes to the overall visual effect of the distorted letter.

Context

As an engraving, this work represents a form of art that was widely accessible and relatively affordable before the advent of photography. Engravings like this one allowed artists to disseminate their work to a broader audience.

Letter R
Letter R, Hans Lützelburger

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Letter P (converted to an R)?

The Letter P (converted to an R) was painted by Master with the Banderoles in 1468.

Where can I see The Letter P (converted to an R)?

The Letter P (converted to an R) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Letter P (converted to an R)?

The Letter P (converted to an R) is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Letter P (converted to an R)?

Museum-quality prints of The Letter P (converted to an R) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.