Letter F c. 16th century

Curator: I see an initial "F" here, but the composition has an emotional darkness—a solemn heaviness. Editor: The Harvard Art Museums hold this anonymous work, entitled “Letter F.” Notice how the density of the ink creates that somber effect. Curator: Yes, and the "F" itself enframes a scene, figures entangled. There’s a suggestion of classical forms, angels perhaps. Their faces are not serene; there's almost a desperate quality to their gaze. Editor: I’m drawn to the texture. The surface seems worn, the lines uneven. It makes me wonder, was this mass-produced or carefully carved? Was it part of a larger printed page, or an individual statement? Curator: The symbol of the letter, combined with the figures, could represent faith, fate, or even folly. It creates a moment of intense contemplation despite its small size. Editor: It's a tiny reminder that even functional design objects carry the weight of human intention and labor. Curator: Absolutely. This letter embodies a blend of form and the figures. Editor: A curious piece, indeed.