Church of San Miguel, Xerez c. 19th century

Editor: This watercolor, Church of San Miguel, Xerez, by Louis Haghe captures a sense of awe. All of the ornamentation makes it feel very elaborate! What do you see in this piece? Curator: The soaring gothic architecture! It reminds me of a fantastic stage set – the kind where angels might actually descend! The artist really focused on the ornate details. Do you think that detracts from the human element at all? Editor: It's interesting, the figures almost seem incidental, like they’re dwarfed by the space. It's like they are overwhelmed. Curator: Exactly! Perhaps Haghe intended to show the power of the church, the power of faith, and how it makes individuals feel smaller in comparison. Editor: I didn’t see that before, but it makes so much sense. Thanks for opening my eyes! Curator: My pleasure! It’s amazing what you notice with fresh eyes.