Head-piece c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have an anonymous “Head-piece” from the Harvard Art Museums. The intricate linework of the print creates an otherworldly vignette. What do you see in this piece? Curator: This piece speaks to the power structures embedded within visual culture. Consider the symbolism: the fish, the sun, framed by wreaths - possibly alluding to hierarchies of knowledge and the natural world, particularly when you consider that the piece is anonymous. Who held the power to create and disseminate images, and whose stories were left untold? Editor: So, the lack of attribution is part of the message? Curator: Absolutely. We can interrogate what the piece represents by asking who made it, and for what purpose? This opens up a dialogue about artistic agency and historical narratives. Editor: That gives me a lot to consider! Thanks for your insight! Curator: My pleasure. It is in the questions that we create new perspectives.