Gezicht op het Piazza del Duomo te Florence c. 1860 - 1890

This albumen print of the Piazza del Duomo in Florence was made by Giacomo Brogi in the late 19th century. Brogi was one of Italy’s most prolific photographers and entrepreneurs, opening studios across the country and selling prints like this to tourists eager to take home a memento of their travels. But this image is more than just a souvenir. It captures a moment in the history of Florence, a city undergoing rapid modernization as it became a popular destination for wealthy Europeans and Americans. The Duomo, of course, looms large as a symbol of the city's rich artistic heritage. But around it, we see a bustling crowd of locals and tourists alike, all caught up in the pace of modern life. The presence of horse-drawn carriages suggests the city's investment in modern infrastructure. To fully understand this image, we might consult city archives, travel guides, and social histories of Florence. These resources help reveal the complex social and economic forces that shaped both the city and its representation in art.