Initial I c. 16th century

Editor: This is "Initial I", a block print from an anonymous artist, and the date is unknown. It feels so medieval and dense, almost claustrophobic with all the foliage packed around the letter. What stands out to you? Curator: I'm drawn to the labor involved. Each line carved, each impression made by hand. How does this process, the repetitive act of production, shape the meaning? Is this mass production or a unique piece, and how does that affect its value? Editor: That's a great point! Thinking about the labor makes me appreciate the details even more. Curator: Exactly! And consider its original context – a page in a book, accessible to the literate elite. The materials and their availability are all clues into the cultural landscape of the time. Editor: I see what you mean. I will never look at illuminated letters the same way again. Curator: Indeed, art is so much more than what meets the eye at first glance.