His approach to realism involved the use of encaustic techniques, where pigments are mixed with hot wax to create a durable, textured surface. Rottmann utilised theatrical lighting to create a sense of drama between the sky and the terrain. He treated the physical shape of the land as a historical record, where shattered stones and eroded cliffs narrated the passage of time more effectively than human figures.

Modern collectors find value in the architectural quality of these works, such as The Cemetery at Pronoia near Nauplia. The compositions avoid the sentimental clutter common in nineteenth-century art, offering instead a focus on form and atmosphere. These prints provide a sense of scale and quietude, making them suitable for contemporary rooms that require a balance of history and minimalism.