Gezicht op Ulm 1890

This photograph, taken by C. Stichaner around 1890, presents us with a view of Ulm, dominated by its towering cathedral. The cathedral, with its soaring spire, symbolizes spiritual aspiration, reaching towards the divine. Consider the visual echoes of such spires throughout history; think of the obelisks of ancient Egypt, symbols of the sun god Ra, or even the minarets of Islamic mosques. These forms, despite their varied religious contexts, share a common thread: the desire to transcend earthly bounds. The upward thrust of the cathedral is a potent expression, deeply embedded in our collective consciousness, reminding us of humanity's quest for something beyond ourselves. This longing, this 'sehnsucht,' is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a profound, subconscious level. It is a visual echo that resonates across cultures and centuries, resurfacing in new forms, each time imbued with the particular spirit of its age.