Vesuvius in Eruption c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Thomas Jeavons’ "Vesuvius in Eruption," an engraving. It’s so dramatic! The volcano dominates the scene, almost like a god. How should we interpret this work? Curator: Well, depictions of Vesuvius were quite popular. The volcano, of course, is an awesome force of nature, but it is also a tourist attraction. The question is how to balance those two seemingly contradictory roles in the visual record. Editor: So the image might be more about control than awe? Curator: Exactly. It's about framing a dangerous natural phenomenon for consumption, literally and figuratively. Editor: That really reframes how I see it. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure!