Joined Letters of the Alphabet, from Encyclopédie

Art Historical Context

Step into the Enlightenment with *Joined Letters of the Alphabet*, a captivating engraving by Aubin from the landmark *Encyclopédie*, by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert. Published around 1760, this plate the era's passion for knowledge dissemination through visual precision. The *Encyclop* (1751–1772) was a revolutionary 28-volume compendium that challenged traditional authority, blending science, arts, and philosophy, with over 2,500 intricate plates like this one illustrating everything from mechanics to the decorative arts. Aubin's engraving on cream laid paper (40 × 26 cm) showcases joined alphabetic forms—elegant, interconnected letters in flowing calligraphy. This technique highlights 18th-century ornamental typography, where letters intertwine in elaborate flourishes, bridging art and utility. Engraving, an intaglio process using a burin to incise metal plates, allowed for fine lines and mass reproduction, making complex designs accessible to scholars and artisans alike. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Prints and Drawings Department, this work reflects the Enlightenment's democratic impulse: turning esoteric skills into public education. It's a delightful nod to the artistry of the written word, reminding us how letters could dance as beautifully as they communicate.