Landscape Two c. 18th century

Curator: Ferdinand Kobell created this sensitive landscape, titled, well, “Landscape Two,” and housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first thought is how wonderfully this etching evokes the feeling of walking on a crisp autumn day. It’s so atmospheric. Curator: The dense trees, almost arching over the path, frame the distant building nestled in the hills. There's a real sense of depth. I wonder what that building represents? Editor: Perhaps a symbol of stability, of home and hearth? Or maybe it’s just a nice house! But consider how the figures clustered on the left balance that point in the distance...it creates a dialogue. Curator: Absolutely. There’s a lovely interplay between the precise detail in the foreground and the more suggestive rendering of the background. Editor: This artwork reveals an enduring human need to connect with nature. We still find comfort in these kinds of scenes. Curator: And Kobell captured that feeling so beautifully. I think I will be spending more time outdoors soon.