Letter P c. 16th century

Curator: This intriguing initial, titled "Letter P," lives here at the Harvard Art Museums, and its creator is unknown to us. Editor: It feels like a little stage—claustrophobic almost. The stark lines create a scene both epic and confined. Curator: The anonymous artist has squeezed a whole world into that single letter. A bow and arrow, a satyr, and even a warrior, all rendered with intricate detail. Editor: I keep circling back to that warrior. He seems caught between worlds, doesn't he? His back is turned to the viewer, obscuring his intentions, which I find curious. Curator: Perhaps he’s about to enter the world the letter contains? It invites us to weave our own narratives around him. Editor: A world born out of the humble letter "P"! An interesting paradox to consider.