Initial F c. 15th century

Curator: This is an anonymous woodcut simply titled "Initial F," held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately, I'm drawn to how contained, yet bursting, this letter form feels. There's such controlled chaos. Curator: Precisely. The tight frame, the thick black border, really emphasizes the intricacy of the white space. Notice the vines and tendrils weaving around the letter. Editor: Absolutely. It feels like an entire ecosystem contained within that single letter. The negative space becomes as significant as the "F" itself, almost like a dance. What strikes me is the possibility for so much imagination to spring from such a simple form. Curator: Yes, a testament to the power of design, even from an unknown hand. It certainly gives new meaning to the phrase "first impressions." Editor: Agreed. It's a beautiful reminder that profound artistry can be found in the most unassuming places.