Letter P c. 16th century

Editor: This is Letter P, an anonymous work held at the Harvard Art Museums. The stark contrast between the letter and the floral background gives it a unique boldness. What’s your take on the social role of illuminated letters like this? Curator: It's fascinating how a simple letter transforms into a symbol of power and authority. These illuminated letters were often the opening of sacred texts or legal documents, visually declaring the importance of the text. What do you think the choice of floral patterns tells us about this particular 'P'? Editor: Perhaps it's linking literacy with growth, knowledge blossoming forth? I hadn’t considered the power dynamics before. Curator: Exactly. Seeing it as more than just decoration opens up so many possibilities. Editor: Definitely changes how I see illuminated manuscripts. Thanks!