Noordzijde van de Grote of Johannes de Doperkerk te Wijk bij Duurstede 1892

This photograph of the Noordzijde van de Grote of Johannes de Doperkerk te Wijk bij Duurstede, was created by Monumentenzorg using a chemical process to capture the scene. The tones we see here result from a fascinating interplay between light-sensitive materials, in a process that involves considerable skill. This is not painting or sculpture, exactly, but it is undeniably a crafted object. The artist had to understand the properties of the materials, and the environment, to produce this effect. Photography emerged in the 19th century at a time of social and industrial change. It offered a way of documenting the world with unprecedented accuracy and a unique perspective on historical preservation. The amount of work that went into each image – the preparation of the plates, the careful timing of the exposure – speaks to a commitment to capturing the essence of the subject. So, as we look at this image, let’s appreciate not only the view it presents but the artistry and labor involved in its making. In doing so, we can begin to question the distinctions between art, craft, and documentation.