Port of the Alhambra from the Dario n.d.

Richard Ford made this pencil drawing of the Alhambra from the Darro valley in Spain. Ford was one of many European artists, writers, and intellectuals who, during the 19th century, became fascinated with the history and culture of Spain, especially its Moorish past. Ford’s sketch offers a glimpse into this fascination. The Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex built by the Moorish rulers of Granada, looms in the background. The Darro Valley, with its narrow streets and traditional buildings, hints at a society steeped in history. The intricate details, the play of light and shadow, and the overall romanticized view reflect the exoticism with which Spain was viewed by outsiders. This was an important part of European Orientalism. To understand this drawing, we can look at travel accounts, historical documents, and studies of European Orientalism. Art becomes a window into cultural exchange, and sometimes cultural misunderstanding.