Plaza Real and Procession 1835

David Roberts created this watercolor titled "Plaza Real and Procession" sometime in the 19th century. Roberts, a Scottish artist, was known for his detailed architectural depictions, often infused with romantic and Orientalist undertones. In this artwork, the cultural and historical context of 19th-century Spain intersects with Roberts's own artistic vision. We see a religious procession in Seville, set against the backdrop of the city's grand architecture. The procession, a public display of faith, moves through the Plaza Real, framed by buildings adorned with flags and banners. The tower which looms in the background suggests the historical complexities, given its origin as a minaret converted into a bell tower after the Christian reconquest. Roberts captures not just the visual spectacle but also the social hierarchy embedded in such events. The procession's participants and the spectators in the balconies reflect a society structured by class and religious identity. The watercolor invites us to consider the power dynamics at play and the emotional investment of individuals within these collective rituals. The scene, bathed in light, evokes a sense of both reverence and spectacle, mirroring the intricate relationship between faith, power, and identity in 19th-century Spain.