Sevilla - Church of the Magdalena 1923

Editor: This is "Sevilla - Church of the Magdalena," an etching by Ernest D. Roth, from 1923. It reminds me of old architectural renderings, with delicate lines and a hazy, nostalgic atmosphere. What strikes you most about this piece? Curator: The etching exemplifies the enduring allure of the "picturesque" in early 20th-century art. Consider the institutional forces at play: Roth, an American artist, traveled to Europe, drawn by the well-trodden path of artists seeking Old World inspiration. His choice to depict a church is no accident. How does it relate to earlier travel sketches intended for the European Grand Tour market? Editor: You're saying that it's part of a larger historical trend? The quest for that postcard view? Curator: Precisely. The market for these images relied on romantic ideas of Europe. And consider the medium: etching, a printmaking technique that lent itself to mass production and circulation. Think about who his audience was. Editor: People who might have visited Spain, or perhaps dreamed of it? Curator: Exactly. And think about how that impacts Roth’s artistic choices. He uses a very traditional technique and compositional style to appeal to this audience, reaffirming specific cultural values and reinforcing expectations around travel and art consumption. Can you see the influence of earlier etchings or engravings? Editor: I think I see what you mean about his market and cultural references now, since the composition really sells this romantic version of Seville... the age of the paper definitely adds to that feeling too. Thanks, I will have to reconsider this artist and other views with the cultural context you've shared! Curator: You’re welcome! Now, go forward with your analysis. What similar things do you find about contemporary artwork about travel?