Initial S c. 15th century

Curator: Here we have an initial "S" from an unknown artist, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's striking! The high contrast and dense imagery give it an intense, almost claustrophobic feel. Curator: These decorated initials were commonly used in early printed books. They marked the beginnings of chapters or important passages, adding visual interest and guiding the reader. Editor: The inclusion of putti and floral motifs speaks volumes. The cherubic figures, along with the foliage, probably represent innocence and growth, reflecting the humanist values of the time. Curator: Precisely. The imagery reinforces the broader socio-cultural context of the burgeoning printing industry. Editor: Looking at it now, I'm thinking about how we give visual cues to our readers. Curator: Indeed, it's fascinating to see how similar motivations persist across centuries and media.