Letter S 15th-16th century

Curator: This captivating initial, "Letter S," comes to us from an anonymous hand. It’s part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It feels almost mischievous, doesn’t it? Like a secret society’s emblem, all swirling lines and those...are those cherubs? Curator: Indeed. The image is rich with potential symbolism, touching on themes of infancy, the alphabet’s societal role, and the classical figures within a contemporary framework. Editor: The way the artist plays with light and shadow makes it feel both antique and strangely modern. I keep wanting to know the story behind those cherubs. Curator: Considering that we do not know the context, there is potential for interpretation through gender studies. In what way do the figures challenge gender norms? Editor: It is thought-provoking how such a simple letter, embellished, can raise so many questions. Curator: Precisely. This initial invites us to interrogate the narratives we attach to even the most mundane symbols.