Letter M 15th-16th century

Editor: Here we have an initial, “Letter M” by an anonymous artist. It is interesting how the figure is incorporated into the letter. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: The labor involved in creating these woodcut initials for printing was immense. Consider the skill required to carve this design in reverse, understanding its function in mass production and the dissemination of knowledge. How does this change your perception of the image? Editor: I see it now as part of the wider production of books, not a singular work of art. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Thinking about its function, it makes me consider how the materials used would hold up to repeated printing.