Notre Dame, Paris c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have John Coney's "Notre Dame, Paris." It's undated but Coney lived from 1655 to 1722, so it's a view of the cathedral from around that time, rendered in ink. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The engraving privileges a focus on the cathedral's facade. Consider the linear precision used to define the architectural elements. How does this linearity impact your perception of the structure? Editor: It makes me notice all the details, the rose window especially. Curator: Indeed. The meticulous detail and ordered perspective evoke a sense of rational observation. Notice the semiotic interplay between light and shadow. The cathedral becomes both object and symbol. Editor: So it's about the way we see and understand structure? Curator: Precisely. The artwork prompts us to consider the representational strategies employed in depicting architectural grandeur. Editor: That’s a completely different perspective than I had!