Letter S c. 16th century

Curator: There's a playful energy radiating from this "Letter S," a small woodcut of unknown origin held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels whimsical. The thick lines and detailed flora and fauna intertwined with the letter create a sort of miniature world. Curator: These initial letter illustrations often carried strong socio-political messages. The choice of animals, the density of foliage—these elements weren't arbitrary. What narratives might the artist be weaving? Editor: Perhaps a commentary on nature's abundance, or maybe the constraints of societal expectations represented by the letterform itself? The rabbits do imply fecundity. Curator: Exactly. And knowing its potential use in illuminated manuscripts or early printed texts contextualizes its purpose and meaning further. Editor: Considering the piece's multiple layers, its compact size belies its conceptual weight. Curator: Absolutely. The piece invites endless interpretations. Editor: A simple letter, made so complex. I appreciate it.