Initial O c. 16th century

Curator: This woodcut, titled "Initial O," is by an anonymous artist, and it's part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. I see a stark contrast between the black ink and the off-white paper. It feels ancient. Editor: Yes, the stark black and white gives it such a graphic, almost aggressive quality. I wonder what it might have been introducing? Curator: Well, initial letters like this were common in illuminated manuscripts, marking the start of chapters or significant passages. The style suggests it was produced during the early age of print. Editor: It's interesting to consider the labour behind this. Each line seems meticulously carved, probably by hand. And then it gets reproduced en masse! Curator: Exactly! The rise of printing was really about democratizing knowledge. And this ornate letter shows how even the smallest detail could reflect the era’s values. Editor: I’m also drawn to the flora and fauna incorporated in the letter. It connects the text to nature. Maybe suggesting some harmony between knowledge and the natural world? Curator: It makes me think about access. Not only who had access to books, but who had the power to produce them. That's something we can reflect on even today. Editor: Indeed. This small "O" opens up larger questions about power, production, and the dissemination of information.