Head-piece c. 16th century

Curator: This anonymous head-piece from the Harvard Art Museums feels incredibly intricate; it's a small world teeming with strange life, isn't it? Editor: Absolutely! It's like a heraldic dream. The wolf and ram heads, the central sprig… it all speaks of power, nature, and perhaps a forgotten family crest. Curator: It's fascinating how such a decorative piece can evoke such strong symbolism. I wonder what narratives or meanings were intended? Editor: Well, the ram often represents Aries, the headstrong fire sign. And the wolf? Loyalty, guardianship... maybe even a touch of wildness kept in check. Curator: Exactly! And placed above a text, perhaps it was to infuse the reading with those qualities? A dash of fierceness before diving in? Editor: Quite possibly. It makes me think about how we still use visual cues to set the tone, even in our digital age. It’s not so different, really. Curator: It really isn't. This piece is a small, powerful reminder that symbols never truly lose their voice, just shift and change their meaning.