Letter V c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have "Letter V," created by an anonymous artist, at the Harvard Art Museums. It's so intricate, almost like a secret garden built around this bold letter. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The "V" here is not merely a letter, but a vessel. The swirling flora evoke illuminated manuscripts, hinting at knowledge and sacred texts. Notice how the density of the pattern creates a psychological pull—what do you think that symbolizes? Editor: Perhaps the weight of history, or the complexity of language itself? Curator: Precisely! It reminds us that even a single letter can carry generations of meaning. Editor: I never thought of it that way. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure.