Initial P c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have an Initial P, an anonymous piece currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a small, intriguing woodcut. Editor: My first thought? A tiny, secret garden! The blocky letter almost disappears into that thicket of leaves and branches. Curator: It makes you wonder about the purpose and context. Was it a singular creation, or part of a larger series or printed work? Think of the labor involved in carving such detail. Editor: The imperfections are what charm me. You can almost feel the artist's hand trembling slightly with each cut. Curator: Indeed, that tangible connection to the hand makes it so compelling. The means of its production are integral to its aesthetic power. Editor: Right, seeing that little P, I'm inspired to go write a poem… or plant something green. Curator: Its simplicity offers avenues for imaginative exploration.