Letter V 15th-16th century

Curator: This striking initial "V" comes to us from an unknown artist. Look at how the letter is integrated into the natural scene. Editor: It feels quite medieval—the strong black lines, the somewhat menacing dogs flanking the letter. Curator: Absolutely. Initial letters like this were common in early printed books. The dogs, the acorns... they are symbols of fidelity and strength, values important to the readers. Editor: It’s interesting to consider how these symbols might reinforce power structures, framing certain virtues as inherently desirable while marginalizing others. Curator: The choice of imagery absolutely reflects the social values of the time. It provides a lens through which we can examine the past. Editor: It's a potent reminder of how even seemingly innocuous designs carry cultural weight. I will never look at initial letters the same way again.