Initial N c. 15th century

Editor: This woodcut, titled "Initial N" by an anonymous artist, features a cherubic figure grappling with a swan within the letterform. What resonates most with you when you view this image? Curator: The initial's design intertwines innocence with a touch of struggle. Birds are often symbols of the soul and cherubs represent divine love; the swan may be the soul attempting to ascend, while the child clings to earthly form. Editor: So, it's a visual metaphor? Curator: Potentially. Perhaps the initial "N" held personal significance. The image invites contemplation on the eternal dance between the earthly and divine. Editor: I hadn't thought about it in those terms. It's fascinating how much symbolism can be packed into such a small space.