Mask from the Courtyard of the Zeughaus, Berlin c. 18th century

Editor: This is Christian Bernhard Rode's "Mask from the Courtyard of the Zeughaus, Berlin." It's a small print, just a few inches across, depicting a grimacing face. What can you tell me about the historical context of displaying architectural fragments like this? Curator: Rode’s print reflects the 18th-century fascination with ruins and fragments, connecting to the Grand Tour tradition where elites collected antiquities. The Zeughaus, a military storehouse, held these masks, becoming a public spectacle. Editor: So, the display itself transformed the object into something more than just decoration? Curator: Exactly. By showcasing these masks, the Zeughaus curated a particular image of Berlin, linking military might to classical ideals. It’s a calculated display of power and cultural aspiration. Editor: That's fascinating. I never would have considered the politics of displaying architectural fragments. Curator: The public role of art is so interesting.