Fountain in Front of a Ruined Tower c. 18th century

Curator: Ferdinand Kobell’s etching, "Fountain in Front of a Ruined Tower," presents us with a scene steeped in history. It looks quite serene, but also a little melancholic. Editor: Indeed. The etching technique, I think, allows Kobell to explore textures and the decay of materials in the architecture and the fountain, which are central to the composition. The ruined tower juxtaposed with the everyday life surrounding the fountain shows consumption habits, access to water, trade... Curator: I love the way the figures are positioned around the fountain, you almost hear sounds, human and animal movement, that are not actually there in the landscape, it's all so engaging. Editor: Right, those figures give life to this moment in time, and through process we can understand how art making captures the essence of an era. Curator: It leaves me with a feeling of wanting to know more about the people in this square, their stories, their lives. Editor: And for me, a deeper understanding of the historical and social context, through the materials and techniques.