The Niagara of the Last Century c. 19th century

Editor: Alfred Louis Sargent’s “The Niagara of the Last Century” presents such a dramatic scene. The scale of the falls compared to the figures is overwhelming. What historical context might be informing this portrayal? Curator: Think about the 19th century’s fascination with the sublime and the romanticization of nature. How might this image be reflecting anxieties around industrialization and the loss of pristine landscapes, particularly in relation to indigenous populations and their displacement? Editor: So, this isn't just a landscape, it's also a commentary on societal shifts? Curator: Precisely. It invites us to question whose perspective is privileged in this depiction of "untouched" nature and what narratives are being subtly reinforced or erased. What do you think the artist is trying to convey? Editor: That's definitely given me a new way to view the work. Thanks! Curator: It's crucial to unpack these historical layers. It adds so much depth to our understanding.