Letter H c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have an initial, "Letter H" by an anonymous artist. I'm really drawn to the stark contrast of black and white, and how the letter itself seems to be a stage for some kind of narrative. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a reflection of power structures, Editor. Consider how illuminated letters were often used to signify authority, particularly within religious texts. Editor: So, the images *within* the letter are just as important as the letter itself? Curator: Precisely! Note the depiction of what appears to be a man and a lion. How are they positioned in relation to one another, and what societal roles might they represent? Editor: I hadn’t thought about that! Now I'm wondering about the relationship between representation and control, like how visual hierarchies are embedded everywhere. Curator: Exactly. This simple "H" opens up complex dialogues about power, representation, and the hidden ideologies within seemingly benign imagery.