Harkness Tower c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have George Taylor Plowman’s "Harkness Tower," likely from the late 19th century, rendered in etching. It gives me a rather quaint feeling, almost like looking into an old photograph album, you know? What are your initial thoughts on this cityscape print? Curator: The charm you observe is precisely what makes this work significant. Cityscapes, particularly of academic institutions like Yale, were powerful tools in shaping perceptions of knowledge and prestige. How does this image position Yale within the broader context of American identity at the turn of the century, do you think? Editor: I guess it’s about selling the idea of a storied, established institution, something almost… European, transferred onto American soil? The gothic architecture certainly suggests that. Curator: Exactly. Etchings, like this one, were easily reproducible and widely circulated. Think about the audience consuming these images. What kind of message is Plowman sending to potential students, donors, and the wider public about Yale’s status and its role in American society? It is interesting to note how architecture becomes a kind of visual shorthand for history, tradition, and ultimately, power. Editor: So, it’s not just a pretty picture, but a deliberate piece of institution building... or institution branding, almost. Is that reading too much into it? Curator: Not at all! These images helped solidify the cultural capital of institutions like Yale. Consider the absence of certain perspectives in images such as this – who *isn’t* represented and how might their stories differ? This makes us aware of the politics behind seemingly neutral portrayals of place. Editor: That’s a great point. I hadn't really considered how images like these contribute to a specific narrative. Thank you for broadening my perspective. Curator: My pleasure. Art offers so many unique insights. Thinking critically about whose stories are being told, and how, can truly enrich our appreciation.