Letter L c. 15th century

Curator: Here we have a fascinating example of early typography—an ornamented initial "L," part of the Harvard Art Museums' collection, by an anonymous artist. Editor: It feels so medieval, almost like something pulled from the margins of a very serious, very old manuscript. I love the stark contrast. Curator: Absolutely. These sorts of decorated letters served a crucial purpose in early printed books. They weren't just decorative; they signaled beginnings, emphasized the importance of the text. Editor: And who got to read these books? Who had access? That initial "L" suddenly feels a bit loaded, doesn't it? Representing literacy, knowledge, and power, all gated. Curator: Precisely. The very act of illumination and elaborate design underscored the privilege associated with the written word, especially when access was restricted to certain societal echelons. Editor: So, this single letter, beautiful as it is, speaks volumes about the social structures that shaped its creation and reception. Quite a statement for a simple "L". Curator: I agree entirely. Thinking about its place in society underscores the power and implications of early print. Editor: It’s amazing to see how a single letter can be such a powerful artifact of its time.