Letter P c. 16th century

Editor: This is an intriguing woodcut print, simply titled "Letter P," found at the Harvard Art Museums. It's really ornate. I’m curious about how it was made. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Considering its production, note the labor involved in carving such intricate designs into wood. The density of detail against the anonymity of the artist speaks volumes about craft guilds and the process of artistic production at the time. Editor: It’s interesting to think about the unseen labor behind something that appears so decorative and even artistic. Curator: Indeed. Consider how the material—the wood, the ink—shapes the aesthetic possibilities, challenging our notions of artistic genius and spotlighting collaborative workshops instead. What do you think about its functionality, or lack thereof? Editor: I guess its function isn't immediately obvious. It makes me appreciate the role of materials and labor in creating even the simplest things. Thanks!