The beauty and simplicity of the monogram has made it appealing for centuries. While today comprised of initials and used as a symbol of identity, the monogram first appeared on currency in Greek and Roman societies. These clay coins would bear the initials of the ruling elite, indicating where the money came from and implying the wealth of the ruler. Royal monograms later made their way onto badges of police and government officials, as a way to tie them back to the ruler.

In the middle ages, monograms were adapted by artisans as a way to sign their work. Often done in flourishing fonts and adorned with embellishments, these not only acted as signatures for their art but also as statements of their personal identity. Rembrandt is particularly known for his monogram signature, and curators are able to accurately estimate the date of his artwork based on changes to his monogram through his career.

Monograms as we are familiar with them today emerged during the Victorian era, when aristocrats would use them to display their status in society. It was during this time that the three initial monogram was introduced, along with guidelines regarding its implementation. Female monograms would consist of the first initial, enlarged last initial, and the middle initial, while male monograms were all the same size and ordered first, middle, and last. Finally, marriage monograms were developed, comprised of the female initial on the left, the male on the right, and the shared last name enlarged in the center.

Today, monograms are a classic embellishment that is used on just about anything. While some choose to stick with a more traditional format, the rules are no longer fixed. Monograms allow for flexibility and are not restricted to just three initials. Whether one seeks to incorporate a family name or the name of her new child, monograms can take on many forms and meanings. Take a look at MANNIN's Monogram series for inspiration.