Gezicht op de Zeestraat aan het Willemspark in Den Haag c. 1865 - 1870

Andries Jager captured this view of the Zeestraat in The Hague, using photography, in the late 19th century. The photograph provides a glimpse into a moment of urban life during a period of significant social and technological change. As industrialization progressed, cities like The Hague experienced rapid growth, with new infrastructure and transportation systems transforming the urban landscape. This photograph, with its wide street, tram rails, and grand buildings, reflects the sense of progress and modernity that defined the era. Yet, the relative emptiness of the street and the lack of human presence also evoke a sense of alienation. The buildings loom over the viewer, creating a sense of distance and detachment. The photograph seems to capture a society in transition, grappling with the implications of modernity while also longing for a sense of community and connection. It’s a scene that invites us to reflect on the emotional and personal dimensions of urban life.