View of Naples by Sunset 

Oswald Achenbach created this "View of Naples by Sunset" using oil on canvas. Achenbach was celebrated for his romantic and idealized landscape paintings, particularly of Italy. This painting captures a moment in the daily lives of the working class in Naples. The figures are rendered with a sense of dignity and purpose, highlighting the relationship between people and their environment. However, it's important to reflect on who is missing from this scene. The image presents a romantic view that doesn't reflect the reality of Italian society. The focus on the working class, while seemingly sympathetic, can be seen as a way of exoticizing them for consumption by a wealthier audience. There is a tendency to overlook the systemic issues of poverty and social inequality that shaped these individuals' lives. The beauty of the sunset and the picturesque scenery contrasts with the labor-intensive work depicted in the foreground, creating a tension that is hard to ignore. What is our role when encountering images such as this one?