Letter R c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have "Letter R" by an anonymous artist, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm immediately struck by the intricate detail, like a tiny, self-contained world. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It whispers to me of illuminated manuscripts, each letter a portal. The anonymous artist, likely a monk or artisan, poured devotion into this single glyph. Notice the figure nestled within, a tiny guardian spirit? Editor: I hadn't noticed! So, it's more than just decoration? Curator: Oh, absolutely! It's a microcosm of faith, art, and the quiet dedication of those whose names are lost to us. Think of it as a prayer visualized, wouldn’t you say? Editor: I never considered the artist's dedication in that way. It makes me want to create something with that level of intention. Curator: Exactly! That is the beauty of art.