Cascade c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Ferdinand Kobell's etching, "Cascade." It feels like a snapshot of a specific moment in time. What social dynamics do you see embedded in this landscape? Curator: I see a deliberate construction of nature, framing it as a space accessible primarily to a privileged class. The figures on horseback, positioned prominently, are they landowners, perhaps? Their presence within the landscape subtly reinforces a power dynamic, a claim of ownership and control. Editor: That's fascinating! I hadn't considered the power implications. Curator: Consider also who is missing. Where are the laborers, the indigenous populations? Their absence speaks volumes about the historical narrative being presented. Editor: It really changes how I see the image now. Thanks for pointing that out. Curator: My pleasure. Hopefully it inspires critical reflection.