Letter D c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have an intriguing piece from the Harvard Art Museums, simply titled "Letter D." It's a small woodcut, author unknown. Editor: It strikes me as rather severe, almost stoic. The stark black lines and limited shading give it a sense of directness, a lack of embellishment. Curator: The letter D, framing a man holding what looks like a musical instrument, suggests literacy and the importance of communication, perhaps even divine communication through music. It reminds us of illuminated manuscripts. Editor: And how the artist uses hatching to create form within the letter’s contours. The sharp contrast between the figure and the background also forces the eye to move and focus on the human element. Curator: Precisely, it's a window into a mindset where knowledge and art were inextricably linked to spirituality. The "D" itself could represent "Dominus," Latin for "Lord." Editor: I find myself impressed by the sheer economy of line. Its small size allows a concentrated experience. Curator: Indeed, a tiny object carrying so much cultural weight. Editor: There's a real sense of history in the image.