Gezicht op het slot Stolzenfels in Koblenz c. 1891

This sepia photograph by Sophus Williams captures Stolzenfels Castle in Koblenz, Germany, sometime in the mid to late 19th century. Williams’ photograph exists within a historical context marked by the rise of nationalism, as Germany unified during this period. The castle itself, rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style, became a symbol of German identity and romanticism. The choice to photograph Stolzenfels Castle reflects the cultural and political values of the time, embracing an idealized vision of the past. It invites viewers to consider the role of architecture and photography in shaping collective memory and national identity. Through its careful composition and subdued tones, the photograph evokes a sense of nostalgia, inviting viewers to reflect on the complex relationship between history, memory, and national identity.