Letter A c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have "Letter A," an intriguing, undated print from an anonymous artist in the collection of the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It strikes me as a woodcut, perhaps? The high contrast and dense patterning create a visually arresting effect. Curator: Exactly. Its blocky forms suggest that, and the floral embellishments would have been carved carefully. These initial letter prints were prevalent in early bookmaking. Editor: Considering the context of mass production and literacy, this simple letter becomes loaded with social meaning and power. How was this image used? Curator: Well, "Letter A" likely served as an ornamental element within a larger text, a marker of a new beginning or chapter. Editor: It reminds me of the ways that marginalized communities use language to create space. An interesting commentary on visual culture. Curator: Indeed. Examining the historical context alongside its aesthetic qualities allows us to appreciate the multiple dimensions of this single letter. Editor: It's funny, such a small thing holds so much history and thought!