Gezicht op de watervallen van Marmore 1761 - 1817

Daniël Dupré created this watercolor painting titled 'View of the Marmore Falls.' During the late 18th century, images of landscapes became potent symbols, reflecting the cultural values and imperial ambitions of the time. As European powers expanded their reach across the globe, artists like Dupré played a role in shaping perceptions of colonized lands and the natural world. This image of the Italian falls presents a majestic view of nature, but we must also recognize its potential role in constructing a narrative of European dominance and control over the environment. The meticulous rendering of the landscape invites viewers to contemplate the power of nature, while subtly reinforcing the idea of human mastery over the natural world. How might the representation of nature in art be used to legitimize certain social and political agendas? How might the artistic gaze influence our understanding of the relationship between humans and the environment?