Landscape Number 22 c. 19th century

Editor: This is Alexandre Calame's "Landscape Number 22." It's part of the Harvard Art Museums collection, though the date is unknown. The landscape is so detailed, but it also feels very staged to me. What do you make of it? Curator: Given Calame's time, this staging points to the rise of landscape painting as a signifier of national identity. How do carefully constructed scenes evoke a sense of belonging and pride? Consider the role museums played in showcasing and shaping these ideals. Editor: So it's less about nature and more about national messaging? Curator: Exactly! And we can even consider who was left out of this "national" landscape, and whose stories weren't being told. Editor: That completely changes how I see this. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! It is always important to consider the cultural and historical context when analyzing art.