La Cañada de Metlac (Spanish title) captures the monumental nature of the southern, coastal state of Veracruz and the rapid modernisation of Mexico during the second half of the 19th century. This work also reflects the early industrialisation that Mexico experienced during Velasco’s lifetime. The theme of the Metlac River is evident, with the imminent future symbolised by the train in the right-hand corner, cutting through the landscape and rushing toward the viewer. In the background, we see the Pico de Orizaba, the highest mountain in Mexico. The railway, completed in 1877, connected the capital with Veracruz, the oldest and largest seaport in Mexico, facilitating better territorial control, trade, and economic development.tructured depth, presenting the forest as both untamed and architectural.