Jerusalem from the Latin Convent c. 19th century

Editor: So, this is Edward Francis Finden’s "Jerusalem from the Latin Convent." It has such a distant, almost dreamlike quality. What sociopolitical narratives do you think are embedded in this portrayal of Jerusalem? Curator: The act of viewing Jerusalem "from" a Latin Convent immediately frames the image within a history of Western perspectives and power dynamics, wouldn't you agree? Editor: That makes sense. It’s like a specific lens through which the city is being interpreted. Curator: Exactly. The scene is passively observed, suggesting a detached, almost colonial gaze. The people within the image become part of the landscape, rather than individuals with agency. What impact does that have, do you think? Editor: It almost dehumanizes them, reinforcing a power imbalance. I hadn't thought about it that way initially. Curator: It’s subtle, but prevalent in much of the art of that era. Recognizing these historical power structures can help us critically engage with art and its role in shaping perceptions. Editor: I will keep that in mind. Thanks.