Initial I c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have an "Initial I" by an anonymous artist, held in the collection of the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite striking, isn't it? Editor: Yes, it feels very grounded, almost elemental. The black ink against the bare paper emphasizes the dense, natural forms surrounding the letter. Curator: Absolutely, and it's important to consider the labor involved in its production. This was likely a woodcut, a process demanding skilled craftsmanship. The materiality speaks volumes about the economics and social context of its time. Editor: Precisely. And beyond the craft, consider the symbolic weight of illuminated letters in early texts. This "I" likely began a chapter, marking a new beginning within a potentially marginalized religious or political narrative. Curator: The tension between the functional aspect as a printing block and the decorative element is fascinating, challenging our notions of "high art" versus utilitarian design. Editor: It's a potent reminder that even seemingly simple forms can carry layers of meaning, revealing the complex intersections of power, identity, and creative expression. Curator: Indeed, it’s a testament to how deeply intertwined art and social structures are. Editor: An anonymous artist making an initial—it makes you wonder about the other forgotten voices that helped shape our world.