Architectural Study – View of a walled city 

Edwin Austin Abbey's watercolor presents a view of a walled city, invoking a sense of historical depth and the evolution of urban defense. The walls and towers, archetypal symbols of protection and power, remind us of humanity's age-old need for security. We can trace this motif through the imposing walls of Jericho and the fortified cities of ancient Mesopotamia, each echoing a blend of strength and vulnerability. The walls here stand as a testament to both the city’s resilience and the potential for conflict. This image also unconsciously evokes the concept of 'Hortus conclusus', the enclosed garden, symbolic of purity and sanctuary, often associated with the Virgin Mary. The city becomes a haven, a protective enclosure against the outside world. The enduring nature of these symbols suggests they resonate with deep-seated psychological needs, a collective memory of seeking safety and order amidst chaos.