Eppstein in the Taunus 

Peter Becker rendered “Eppstein in the Taunus” using graphite and colored pencil on paper, offering us a glimpse into the mid-19th century German landscape. Becker’s artistic career coincided with a period of burgeoning nationalism and romanticism. The drawing's misty portrayal of Eppstein evokes a sense of nostalgia for the medieval past, with the castle ruins serving as a stark reminder of the passage of time and the ephemerality of human achievements. As the Industrial Revolution swept across Europe, artists like Becker turned to the untouched beauty of the natural world as a sanctuary from the rapidly changing urban landscapes. These landscapes became potent symbols of national identity and cultural heritage. Becker was deeply rooted in the artistic and intellectual currents of his time, reflecting the complex relationship between progress and tradition that defined 19th-century Germany. In doing so, the artwork invites us to contemplate our place within the historical narrative and consider the enduring power of memory and imagination.