Das Brodtener Ufer bei Travemünde 1826

This drawing shows the Brodtener Ufer near Travemünde, and was made by Friedrich Nerly using pen and ink. It’s interesting to think about this landscape in relation to the rise of tourism in 19th-century Germany. The Baltic coast became a popular destination for those seeking leisure and health benefits. Artists like Nerly played a role in shaping the visual identity of these places, often emphasizing the sublime beauty of nature. But consider what this image leaves out. Where are the crowds? What kind of social life took place here? To understand this artwork, we might consult historical travel guides, local newspapers, and even medical journals that promoted the health benefits of sea air. By understanding the image’s cultural context, we can better understand the social conditions that shape artistic production. Ultimately, the meaning of art is always contingent on its historical and institutional context.