Gezicht op Florence vanaf de Viale de Celli c. 1865 - 1890

This photograph titled ‘Gezicht op Florence vanaf de Viale de Celli’ was created by Edizione Brogi. Notice how the pale, sepia tones evoke a sense of distance and nostalgia, typical of early photography. The composition is structured around the Viale de Celli in the foreground, acting as a leading line that directs the viewer's gaze towards the distant cityscape of Florence. The bridges punctuate the horizontal flow of the Arno river, creating a rhythm that organizes the urban sprawl. The image operates on semiotic levels. The photograph's structure and composition reflect broader cultural codes and perceptions of urban space and historical representation. The framing emphasizes a picturesque, almost romantic view of Florence. The image serves as a cultural artifact, capturing a specific moment in time, and inviting us to contemplate the ongoing dialogue between past and present. The lack of vibrant colour forces us to consider the photograph's construction and historical role, offering a window into a world seen through the lens of early photographic technology.