Lumley Castle, Durham, engraved by C. Pye Possibly 1810

Editor: This is "Lumley Castle, Durham," an engraving by C. Pye after Joseph Clarendon Smith. It feels so serene, with the sheep grazing peacefully. What's your take on this, beyond the pretty picture? Curator: Well, it whispers to me of a time when landscape wasn't just scenery, but a stage for power. Do you see how the castle dominates the horizon? Those aren't just clouds; they're almost a halo. It's subtle propaganda, wouldn't you say? Editor: Propaganda? I hadn't considered that. So, it's not just about capturing a beautiful view? Curator: Not at all! It's about claiming space, projecting permanence. Think about who commissioned this; what story did they want it to tell? Editor: That really reframes the whole image! Now I see it less as a landscape and more as a statement. Thanks!