Alphabet

Heinrich Aldegrever

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of the alphabet surrounded by decorative elements. The letters A to Z are displayed in pairs on a textured backdrop in a structured grid. Elaborate scrollwork and foliage frame the text. Two cherubs are depicted on either side of the frame: one on the left holds a horn-like object, and the other cherub on the right holds a globe in one hand and a staff in the other. Both figures are surrounded by detailed leaves and scroll patterns.