Gezichten op Lugano en Bellinzona, 1726 1726

This double-view engraving of Lugano and Bellinzona was made in 1726 by an anonymous artist. Its formal composition is divided horizontally, presenting two distinct yet connected landscapes. The dense arrangement of buildings and natural forms creates a textured surface. The upper part is dominated by the town of Lugano nestled between the lake and mountains, evoking a sense of enclosure. The mountains in the background establish a visual hierarchy that directs the eye from the intricate details of the town to the broader natural setting. The lower half depicting Bellinzona employs a similar strategy, but with a more open layout, creating a sense of expansive space. Considered through a structuralist lens, this engraving is not just a depiction of geography. It is a visual encoding of space and power, designed to communicate specific ideas about these locales. The detailed rendering of the towns suggests an emphasis on civic pride and strategic importance. The strategic arrangement of the elements and the intricate line work reflect broader cultural and philosophical concerns, offering a coded view of the landscape.