Norham Castle c. 19th century

Editor: This is Thomas Goff Lupton's "Norham Castle". It is a monochromatic print that gives off a somber mood. The composition, with the castle looming in the distance, is striking. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The interplay of light and shadow is quite remarkable. Consider the tonal gradations achieved solely through the manipulation of light on the copper plate. It is a masterful example of mezzotint. Editor: So, you focus on the technique and its formal elements. What about its effect on us as viewers? Curator: The rough texture, a by-product of the mezzotint process, adds depth and tactile quality. Notice how the light source impacts the textural interpretation? Editor: I never thought of it that way. It's like the texture amplifies the mood. Curator: Precisely. The artist’s chosen process yields a surface that engages the viewer on multiple sensory levels. Editor: I'll certainly pay more attention to texture in prints going forward.