Landscape with Travelers and a Large Tree; verso: Landscape with a Ruined Bridge  c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Landscape with Travelers and a Large Tree" by Reyer Claesz. Suycker. It's a delicate drawing, and I'm struck by how the large tree dominates the scene. What kind of message do you think Suycker was trying to send here? Curator: The tree can be seen as a representation of nature's power and endurance but also its exploitation. Consider the travelers; are they dwarfed by nature, or are they shaping it to their will? The answer may reveal how Dutch society saw its relationship with the landscape. Editor: That makes me consider the cultural context differently. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure! Considering the role of art in shaping perceptions of nature is always fascinating.