Head- or Tail-piece c. 16th century

Editor: This is an anonymous piece called "Head- or Tail-piece" from the Harvard Art Museums. It's a delicate floral design. What sociopolitical narratives might this piece engage with? Curator: Considering this could be a head- or tail-piece for a book, it prompts us to ask: whose stories are centered and whose are marginalized? Floral motifs, while seemingly innocent, can signify power structures when placed within specific contexts. Editor: So, it's less about the pretty flowers and more about what they might obscure? Curator: Precisely. What voices are silenced or amplified by these aesthetic choices? The anonymity of the artist also raises questions about the role of authorship. Food for thought. Editor: Definitely changes how I see these little decorations! Thanks.