Letter P c. 16th century

Curator: An anonymous hand crafted this woodcut, titled simply, "Letter P," currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. The absence of further details makes it quite an intriguing piece to consider. Editor: It’s captivating! The crispness of the lines against the dense background gives it an almost playful seriousness. The textures feel so alive. Curator: The letter itself is intertwined with a narrative, a cherubic figure nestled within foliage. This speaks volumes about the use of initials within a historical context— where even a letter embodies the complexities of culture and society. Editor: Absolutely. The figure of the cherub, for instance, could be interpreted as a symbol of innocence or even eroticism, depending on the broader narrative at play. It's about memory and shared understanding across time. Curator: True. It shows us how the alphabet itself can be a stage for expressing power structures, social mores, and identity through symbolism. It’s a reflection of ourselves. Editor: A poignant reflection indeed. There's a sense of timelessness here; a visual reminder of enduring human themes.