Cut XXII c. 16th century

Curator: This is "Cut XXII," a fascinating, undated print from an anonymous artist held within the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by the face—a grotesque mask or perhaps a decorative boss? It seems caught between agony and a sort of theatrical pronouncement. Curator: Indeed. Consider the labor involved in carving these minute details into what was likely a woodblock. The social context of such a printed image is equally intriguing. Editor: Absolutely. The wreath and architectural elements evoke classical antiquity—a visual echo of power, knowledge, or perhaps even hubris. The open mouth, clutching a ring, seems to symbolize speech or pronouncements, maybe even a warning. Curator: Perhaps, or it could speak to the mass production and dissemination of classical imagery that became possible with printmaking. Editor: I'm still drawn to the emotional resonance of the face. It's more than just decoration; it feels like a relic from a dream. Curator: And I see in it the very means by which such dreams could circulate and proliferate. Editor: A grimace echoing through centuries. Curator: And multiplied by the printing press.