Steep Rock c. 18th century

Curator: Looking at "Steep Rock" by Martin von Molitor, I immediately feel a sense of awe. The sheer scale of the rock formation is emphasized by the delicate lines of the etching. Editor: Absolutely. Molitor, active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, presents us with a landscape charged with the burgeoning romantic ideals of the time. One might even see a connection to the burgeoning theories of the sublime, with nature represented as an overwhelming force. Curator: Exactly. And it's interesting to consider how this depiction might intersect with contemporary discussions around environmentalism, questioning our relationship with the natural world and highlighting the fragility of such monumental formations in the face of climate change. Editor: Indeed. Thinking about the politics of imagery, it’s also worth noting how this image, and others like it, played a role in shaping perceptions of landscape, influencing land use and even tourism. Curator: Reflecting on the power dynamics inherent in viewing such a scene, it makes me wonder about accessibility and who gets to define these natural spaces. Editor: A powerful observation. This engraving leaves us pondering the intricate ways art reflects and shapes our social and environmental landscapes.