The Summer 1807

Caspar David Friedrich painted 'The Summer' with oil on canvas sometime in his lifetime between 1774 and 1840. This vista offers a glimpse into the Romantic era's complex relationship with nature and national identity. Friedrich, living through a period of political upheaval in Europe, often used landscapes to evoke emotional and spiritual responses. In 'The Summer,' we see an idealized vision of the German countryside, a common theme among artists seeking to define and celebrate their national heritage. But let's consider the people within this landscape. How might their social standing influence their experience of this scene? Are they landowners, laborers, or travelers? This brings questions about class and access to nature, and invites reflection on who can claim ownership of the land and its beauty. In its quiet, idyllic portrayal of nature, 'The Summer' encourages us to think about how landscapes shape our identities, and how our identities shape our perception of the land.