Watch-Tower c. 18th century

Editor: This is "Watch-Tower" by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich. It's an etching, and it gives me this feeling of… romantic decay. All these crumbling walls and overgrown stairs. What do you make of it? Curator: It whispers stories, doesn't it? Of lives lived and time passing. Look at the smoke curling from the chimney – everyday life nestled amongst the ruins. It's like a stage set, and we are the audience invited to imagine the play. The artist poses the question, what kind of tale can you create for this place? Editor: That makes me see it in a whole new way! Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! Never underestimate the power of setting.