Letter V c. 16th century

Editor: Here we see "Letter V," an undated piece by an anonymous artist. It's a simple block print, but the letter is intricately decorated. What strikes you about the composition? Curator: The stark contrast between the black letterform and the white ground is quite arresting. Note how the artist utilizes positive and negative space to create a dynamic interplay between the letter and its ornamental surround. Editor: The curves and flourishes around the 'V' almost seem to fight against its rigid shape. Curator: Precisely. The tension established by the contrast enhances the visual interest. The artist’s choice to enclose the letter within a rigid frame further emphasizes this tension. Editor: I see it now, the frame contains the freedom of the ornamentation. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, a successful exploration of form and constraint.