Towers of San Gimignano 1932

John Taylor Arms made this print of the Towers of San Gimignano sometime in the early 20th century. The subtle ink strokes feel incredibly meticulous, like he’s trying to get every detail of the architecture just right. I wonder what Arms was thinking as he etched this plate? I can imagine him wanting to capture the texture and weight of the stone. I'm sure he went back and forth between the towers and the surface to create a balanced composition. I think he's interested in the way the archway frames the towers, inviting us into the scene. See how he uses the contrast of light and shadow to emphasize the monumentality and depth of the architecture? It reminds me a little of Piranesi's architectural prints, in how they both capture the imposing scale and historical weight of buildings. And it’s through this conversation with artists and artworks of the past, we continue to see the world in new and interesting ways.