Letter I 1536 - 1568

Curator: Here we have the woodcut print, “Letter I,” from an anonymous artist. It's part of a series of decorated alphabet letters. Editor: It’s striking. The figure on the left especially, feels so dynamic, but almost strained, as though struggling to contain this massive letter. Curator: Right, these initials were often used to mark the beginnings of important passages in texts. The inclusion of these active figures brings a sense of drama. Editor: I wonder what the figures signify. Are they meant to be cherubs, or something else entirely? The way they frame the letter hints at themes of support and perhaps even burden. Curator: Possibly. The decorative foliage, typical of the period, might also hint at themes of growth and new beginnings associated with the letter's placement. Editor: Considering its purpose, the letter’s form seems to almost overshadow the figures. It's a fascinating visual hierarchy. Curator: It makes you think about the power and importance placed on textual beginnings. Editor: Indeed. I appreciate how this small piece can provoke such expansive questions about text and representation.