A Winter Scene with Stream and Snowy Fir Trees c. 19th century

Curator: Alexandre Calame, a Swiss artist active in the 19th century, created this scene, titled "A Winter Scene with Stream and Snowy Fir Trees," now residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The density of the marks used to create this snowy scene is striking; it really conveys the crisp, cold air. Curator: The artist’s skillful rendering of light and shadow is quite notable, effectively defining the snowy landscape's textures and forms. How do you see this piece relating to wider trends in landscape art? Editor: It’s interesting. The image emphasizes a sublime view, but on close inspection, it is made with a repetitive, almost industrial use of etching. It’s a commodity, in a way. Curator: I agree. The proliferation of printed images allowed for wider access to nature scenes, shaping public perception and even driving tourism. Editor: Ultimately, it prompts me to reflect on how representations of nature, like this print, can impact our relationship to the environment and the art market.