Letter G c. 16th century

Curator: Let's consider this intriguing initial, "Letter G," housed in the Harvard Art Museums and crafted by an anonymous hand. Notice the dense interplay of line and form. Editor: It's sort of severe, isn't it? Like an invitation to some very serious calligraphy lesson taught by a humorless sun god. Curator: The composition certainly demands attention. Observe how the letterform integrates with the surrounding ornamentation and the face. The contrast between the linear precision of the letter and the decorative elements generates a dynamic tension. Editor: I find that tension interesting though. You've got this stern, classical face, almost Roman, nestled in this wild thicket of lines. There's something almost humorous in the juxtaposition. Curator: A valid point. What do you make of the symmetrical structure? Editor: Order wrestles chaos, perhaps? Though I bet that sun-faced dude would like to think he's winning! Curator: Indeed. The piece offers much to consider in its formal arrangement. Editor: Yes, it's the kind of little enigma that gets your mind happily tangled.