Sculptuur van József Engel, voorstellend een groep amazonen, tentoongesteld op de Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations van 1851 in Londen 1851

Curator: We’re looking at a photograph of József Engel’s sculpture depicting a group of Amazons, displayed at the Great Exhibition in London, 1851. The image is a gelatin silver print. Editor: Wow, even in this aged photograph, you can feel the tension in the sculpture. The Amazon seems to be carrying a fallen comrade; it evokes a strong, sorrowful mood. Curator: Yes, observe the composition: the diagonal lines formed by the figures create a dynamic sense of movement frozen in time. Note how the artist uses the principles of classical realism to emphasize idealized human forms. Editor: It’s fascinating how this piece, exhibited in the Victorian era, still speaks of enduring themes – strength, loss, and camaraderie. It also suggests the social roles of women. Curator: The photograph’s monochrome palette underscores the play of light and shadow, accentuating the musculature and drapery. Consider too, the ancient context: József Engel is revisiting Amazon myths to say something very new about war, or perhaps, society. Editor: The drape covering half the frame, combined with that silver tone, make me imagine it like a memory, or even a dream; very faint and far away but with meaning. Curator: The statue represents a shift in academic art that coincided with the growing medium of photography and popular exhibitions. Engel utilizes ancient subject matter, filters it through a realist lens, and in turn Ferrier & Von Martens' gelatin print brings the piece back to life today! Editor: Looking at this I just imagine ancient stories around camp fires that were always there; even in today's technological advancement, the spirit is still strong! Curator: Indeed. The work bridges historical context with visual structure, revealing classical forms re-envisioned through a contemporary medium. Editor: For me, it’s more about a timeless emotional depth. It captures a painful humanity, making us rethink the glory often found in art forms like these.