Letter Q c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have a woodcut simply titled "Letter Q," created by an anonymous artist, and currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The stark contrast immediately grabs me, that bold black outline of the "Q" framing the figure's face. It's almost claustrophobic. Curator: Indeed. These initial letters were often used to mark chapters, setting the stage for the text that followed, and hinting at the authority or wisdom contained within. Editor: The heavy lines and dense hatching certainly convey that sense of authority you mention, almost like an icon, while the subject stares with that serious gaze. I'm thinking the artist may have borrowed these ideas from ancient engravings. Curator: Quite possibly, early printers often looked to classical forms to lend legitimacy to their new medium, trying to align the printed word with established cultural values. Editor: It feels somber, yet powerful. A humble letter, yet it holds such weight. Curator: The power of print and the impact of this "Letter Q" is evident. Editor: Agreed. Quite an impactful Q.