Letter S c. 15th century

Editor: So, this is "Letter S" by an anonymous artist. It’s a small print, maybe a woodcut? The letter is so ornate, almost overgrown with foliage. What purpose would this have served? Curator: These initial letters often appeared at the start of chapters or important passages in books. The lack of identifying information about the artist highlights a tension: the individual artistry is less important than the broader societal function of literacy and visual communication. What do you think this says about the value placed on individual versus collective expression at the time? Editor: I guess the message was more important than who created the letter itself! Thank you! Curator: Precisely, and that focus shapes how we understand the art's role in society. A new perspective for me as well!