Archway c. 20th century

Curator: This is Bror Julius Olsson Nordfeldt’s etching, titled “Archway,” created circa the 20th century. What’s your immediate impression? Editor: A kind of shadowed, transient beauty. The heavy stone arch frames a more distant cityscape. It gives a sense of depth, a pulling-in towards the light, though it is quite gray. Curator: Nordfeldt made this print during his time in Paris, influenced by the Realist movement. He focused on everyday urban scenes. Considering this, how do you interpret the architectural element, this "Archway"? Editor: I see the arch as both structure and symbol. Note how Nordfeldt uses a range of tones and textures. The heavy darkness of the stones directs us to consider depth, from rough surfaces to vanishing point— Curator: And I would like to add, thinking about the date of this work and Nordfeldt’s exposure to the social changes of his time, that this passageway it's more than just a structure, it represents societal movement, a gateway between the old and the new, a liminal space where lives intersect. Editor: Agreed. There’s also an inherent geometry at play, in its lines, shapes and forms, a clear urban design— Curator: That points to something much more fluid when viewed alongside those shadowy figures—their actions hint at labor, potential inequality, the overlooked individuals within the bustling metropolis. Nordfeldt captured a moment of raw, unvarnished urban experience. Editor: Looking at the composition again, note how light falls on the cobblestones just outside the arch, it’s masterful! Light and dark create a strong pull towards a central vanishing point which, interestingly, brings the figures slightly out of focus... Curator: Placing the emphasis, ultimately, back on the context in which these laborers existed! A commentary, perhaps? Food for thought... Editor: Definitely! Nordfeldt gives us something both architecturally rigid and psychologically fluid. Curator: He created an opportunity, in effect, for discussions around class, social structures, the role of city dwellers. A print with the power to evoke significant emotion. Editor: Yes, this composition rewards deep engagement—one has to look at structure, the application of the medium, but more importantly, allow an interaction with what is framed within.