Initial P c. 16th century

Editor: This is "Initial P," an anonymous print residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It looks like a woodcut, and the black and white contrast is very striking. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: Considering its creation, let's think about the role of printing in society. How did the rise of the printing press affect the dissemination of knowledge and imagery, and who controlled that process? Editor: So, the "P" could be viewed as a symbol of literacy and access to information, but also control over who gets to read what? Curator: Precisely. It highlights the inherent power dynamics of mass communication. What do you make of the design itself? Editor: I see a decorative border and foliage within the letter. It seems both functional and artistic. Curator: And the combination underscores how aesthetics were being used to legitimize and popularize the written word. It is quite thought-provoking. Editor: Absolutely! I never considered the political implications of something as simple as a printed letter.