Letter R c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have a print simply titled "Letter R," by an anonymous artist. It resides in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Intricate! The letter itself is bold, but the surrounding detail is like a dense, somewhat wild garden. There’s a real tension between order and chaos. Curator: Yes, the floral and foliate designs are incredibly detailed. It speaks to the enduring power of illuminated letters, doesn't it? The visual language of status through symbolic imagery. Editor: Absolutely. The density and detail certainly speak to a desire for display, of something being important or worth investing in. But who was it made for, really? A wealthy patron? Curator: Possibly, but it could also be a demonstration piece for a printmaker, showcasing their skill in engraving. The lack of attribution makes its purpose all the more fascinating. Editor: It's a reminder that art serves many masters, and that even the simplest form can carry such a wealth of cultural context. Curator: Indeed, a single letter, yet a universe of possibilities.