Initial C c. 16th century

Curator: The stark contrasts immediately grab your attention, don't they? It's a rather intense little image. Editor: Indeed. We are looking at "Initial C," an intriguing artwork of unknown origin here at the Harvard Art Museums. Its anonymous creation leaves much to the imagination. Curator: The labor involved in such a small, precise piece is fascinating. Consider the production of this piece. What purpose did it serve, perhaps mass-produced? Editor: The way the black ink defines the "C" and the natural forms within is striking. The artist has played with positive and negative space to create a dynamic composition. Curator: Precisely. Perhaps part of a larger book; the consumption of printed material and literacy rates of the time are crucial to understanding its existence. Editor: Ultimately, the visual effect is quite compelling, drawing the eye into its intricate design. Curator: Absolutely, and thinking about its function allows a richer appreciation. Editor: A valuable insight.