Glossary of Medeival Art and Architecture

pen flourished initial:An ornamental initial characterized by abstract, rhythmic patterns, usually drawn in red or blue ink. Pen flourished initials were especially common during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries.

See also:illuminated initial.

Other types of illuminated initial: foliate, inhabited, historiated or figured.

Click here for pronounciation


Go to Main
Glossary Page


All images and html code in this project are copyright Jane Vadnal. Any use of them without her express written consent is prohibited. Email: medart@unixs.cis.pitt.edu.
Created by Jane Vadnal 05/97