Wandelaars op de Bossonsgletsjer in Chamonix c. 1889 - 1920

This photograph captures a group of tourists exploring the Bossons Glacier in Chamonix. Though the photographer is anonymous, the image speaks volumes about the historical context of its time. During the 19th century, the Alps became a popular destination for wealthy Europeans, drawn to the sublime beauty of the mountains and glaciers. This photograph reflects the romanticized view of nature that was prevalent during this era, portraying the glacier as both awe-inspiring and a site for leisurely exploration. The figures in the image, dressed in the fashion of the time, are depicted as conquerors of nature, confidently navigating the icy terrain. Yet, there's an underlying tension between the figures and the landscape that surrounds them. As we look at this image today, in an era of climate crisis, the melting glacier evokes a sense of loss. This photograph, once a symbol of human triumph, can now be seen as a reminder of our fragile relationship with the natural world.