Hastings from the Sea, engraved by W. Miller 1836

Editor: Here we have "Hastings from the Sea," an engraving by W. Miller after Clarkson Stanfield. The monochromatic composition is quite striking. How do you see this work fitting into its historical context? Curator: This image highlights the public role of landscape in the 19th century. Coastal scenes like this contributed to the romantic vision of Britain and facilitated a sense of national identity. How do you interpret the prominent depiction of the sea? Editor: I see the rough seas contrasting with the town's serene façade. A push and pull between nature and society, perhaps? Curator: Exactly! These kinds of images helped shape how people viewed the relationship between nature and industrializing society. It's a powerful visualization of the political and economic landscape of the time. I never thought about that, what about you? Editor: Never! Thanks so much.