Roman Bridge c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have "Roman Bridge" by Cornelis Ploos van Amstel. It's a sepia drawing with a really interesting composition. What do you see in this piece? Curator: This drawing highlights the intersection of infrastructure and societal power. The bridge, likely Roman, symbolizes control over movement and trade. How does the artist’s depiction of labor on and around the bridge affect your reading? Editor: I hadn't thought about the labor aspect! Curator: Consider how the figures are arranged, their tasks. It speaks to the human cost often erased in grand narratives of architectural achievement and imperial power. Editor: That reframes the entire image. It’s not just a pretty landscape, it's about people and power. Curator: Precisely! Art allows us to look beneath the surface. Editor: I'll definitely view art with a new lens now, thank you.