Hondenkar op straat in Luzern, Zwitserland 1857 - 1914

Giorgio Sommer created this albumen print, titled "Dog cart on the street in Lucerne, Switzerland." Here, dogs are not merely companions but laborers, a motif echoing back to ancient times. We see them harnessed, burdened, pulling a cart—a poignant contrast to the pampered pets of today. This invokes the Roman canis servus, the working dog, diligently performing tasks. Consider the loyal dogs of ancient Egypt, not only guarding but assisting in hunts. The psychological weight of this image is substantial, reminding us of a time when animals were seamlessly integrated into the workforce, their strength and loyalty harnessed for human benefit. It’s a cycle of dependence and labor, a visual echo resonating through centuries. The presence of the fountain hints at water, a crucial element for both humans and animals, marking a place of rest and sustenance. We see the fountain, a source of life-giving water, as an ever-flowing symbol of survival. This image is not just a snapshot of a moment but a link in an unbroken chain, highlighting how roles and relationships shift through time.