Letter C c. 16th century

Editor: This is the Letter C, an anonymous artwork at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a detailed initial, completely surrounded by foliage and even a bird! What would you say about how this piece fits into art history? Curator: These illuminated initials weren't just decoration; they were powerful visual cues within religious or legal texts. The elaborate designs also served to showcase the wealth and sophistication of the patron commissioning the work. Editor: So it's about power and display? Curator: Exactly. These weren't mass produced. The labor and artistry involved signaled status. How do you think the availability of such art impacted the public? Editor: I never considered how access influenced perceptions of art and power. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It's about seeing the broader social impact.