New Castle c. 19th century

Editor: This is "New Castle" by James Duffield Harding. I’m struck by the quietness of this scene. It feels like a memory. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see the castle as a potent symbol of power, softened by nature. The body of water acts as a mirror, reflecting this power and perhaps, its fragility. Does the doubling effect diminish or reinforce its cultural significance? Editor: It's interesting that the reflection almost democratizes the image, making the castle feel more accessible. Curator: Exactly! This accessibility might be Harding's commentary on the changing social landscape, where the old hierarchies are being reimagined. The castle, once a symbol of unyielding authority, now exists in a world of reflection and interpretation. Editor: I never would have thought of it that way. It makes me consider how symbols change over time. Curator: Indeed. And how artists use these visual shorthands to subtly comment on the world around them.