Initial N c. 16th century

Curator: This striking image, entitled "Initial N," is a woodcut from an anonymous artist currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. What's your first take? Editor: It feels very grounded to me, almost like the letter "N" is a little garden trellis. A miniature world brimming with growth. Curator: Given the anonymity of the artist, we can only speculate about its original context, but these illuminated initials were often the start of something grand, signaling a shift in text or thought. Editor: I love that idea – each one a tiny portal. Did the artist have any intent when they made this work? I mean, beyond just creating something functional? Curator: It's hard to say without knowing the specific time period or location of its creation. But, such decorative elements elevated the written word, making it sacred. Editor: So, what we are seeing is that this piece might have had a bigger role, which is interesting. Curator: Absolutely, this "Initial N" reminds us that even the smallest of artistic gestures can carry significant weight. Editor: It’s like a seed of meaning, waiting to sprout. A perfect note to end on.