Wren's City 1909

Curator: Here we have Joseph Pennell's "Wren's City" from the Harvard Art Museums. I’m immediately struck by the somber mood. It’s almost gothic, isn’t it? Editor: Indeed. The density of the etching emphasizes the industrialized city. The Thames here isn't a romantic feature; it's a working river defined by transport and labor. Curator: And yet, St. Paul's Cathedral looms large, a clear symbol of resilience and spiritual fortitude, especially given Wren’s work to rebuild London after the great fire. Editor: I'm more interested in the technical process. Look at the layering of lines, creating depth and suggesting the sheer volume of buildings and people involved in the city's functioning. Curator: I see the Cathedral as a beacon, a symbol of hope rising above the grimy reality. It speaks to the enduring power of faith and human creativity. Editor: For me, it's about the means of production—the copper plate, the acid, the skilled labor required to create this image, reflecting the very industry it depicts. Curator: A compelling viewpoint. It makes me consider how our interpretations shift with our focus. Editor: Precisely, and perhaps the symbiosis of industry and faith—both demanding labor and belief—makes the artwork all the more captivating.