The decoration of insular initials, especially large ones, was generally abstract and geometrical, or featured animals in patterns. Historiated initials were an Insular invention, but did not come into their own until the later developments of Ottonian art, Anglo-Saxon art, and the Romanesque style in particular. After this period, in Gothic art large paintings of scenes tended to go in rectangular framed spaces, and the initial, although often still historiated, tended to become smaller again.
Insular decorative initials, particularly large ones, were frequently abstract or geometric designs featuring animals in patterns. Historiated initials, a hallmark of Insular art, didn't reach their peak until later developments within Ottonian, Anglo-Saxon, and Romanesque styles. After this period, large paintings within rectangular frames became common in Gothic art, while the initial, although often still historiated, tended to become smaller.