Carey Castle in Pembroke Shire, from Twelve Views in Aquatinta from Drawings taken on the Spot in South Wales 1773 - 1775

Paul Sandby created this aquatint, "Carey Castle in Pembroke Shire," as part of a series depicting South Wales. Sandby’s series reflects a growing interest in the picturesque and sublime qualities of the British landscape. The choice of a ruined castle speaks to the late 18th-century fascination with history and decay. We see this interest spurred by political and cultural shifts, notably the ongoing effects of the industrial revolution. But Sandby’s images weren't neutral. The way he framed the landscape and included figures actively shaped perceptions of Wales and its place in Great Britain. Was he celebrating Welsh history or framing it as a relic of the past? As historians, we can consult estate records, travelogues, and other visual materials to better understand the cultural and political context surrounding this image. In doing so, we can appreciate how art both reflects and actively shapes our understanding of the past.