1. What’s in a monogram?
By definition, a monogram is a combination of letters, usually initials, arranged into a decorative mark that identifies a person, family, or brand.

2. Why are we doing this project?

3. Today we see monograms as a decorative way to embellish jewelry and home furnishings, but these symbols are one of the earliest forms of identification and date all the way back to the 6th century, B.C., when they could be found on Roman coins with rulers’ initials.

4. Early Greeks used this tactic as well, and soon monograms were found all over ancient currency to identify the ruler of the region from which the currency originated. Over time, monograms were used more and more to designate the property of nobility; monograms became a status symbol that were embroidered and emblazoned on weaponry, linens, coats of arms, and more by royalty and noblemen. 

5. The embroidered goldwork royal monogram of Marie-Antoinette

6. During the Middle Ages, however, monograms became common among artists, many of whom used them to sign their work. Early monograms generally consisted of two letter, while later, during the Victorian era, traditional monograms began to consist of three letters. An interesting example of this can be found in the Dutch painter Rembrandt, who in the 1600s used his simple monogram RH to sign his work, later changing it to RHL as the Victorian era approached.  
Today art curators are able to identify when famous artist Rembrandt created his paintings. His earlier pieces were monogramed RH, while later pieces were more formally monogrammed with RHL.

8. Victorian Era
Monograms were first utilized for personal use during the Victorian Era. First monograms were sewn to linens so they would not get lost during in the wash. Later on, however, monograms were used for decorative purposes, including mirrors, silverware, and lockets. They were also used for status and family. Monograms were used to symbolize a family’s place in society.

9. Louis Vuitton first monogrammed, or logoed, the leather goods of his family firm in 1876.

11. Victorian Era
Strict standards for monogram form were set during this time. Women’s monograms consisted of the first initial on the left, the middle initial on the right, and the last initial in the middle, larger than the others.

13. The letters can also be interwoven together

14. Today
Monograms have also been used effectively by businesses and companies for marketing purposes throughout the years. The British Rolls-Royce Motor Company which manufactures high-quality vehicles is an example.  The Rolls-Royce logo consists of two letter Rs which represent the names of the owners, Charles Rolls and Sir Frederick Royce, who founded the company in 1906.
Several companies have used a monogram incorporated into their logo and one of the first in the fashion industry was French designer Coco Chanel.  The Chanel logo was created in 1925 and consists of two interlocking and opposing letters C. 

16. My Christmas presents this year!