Gezicht op de Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal in Amsterdam c. 1880 - 1900

This is an early photograph by Gebr. van R., capturing the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal in Amsterdam. With its muted tones and soft focus, the image evokes a sense of nostalgia, yet it also offers a glimpse into the socio-economic dynamics of the time. The Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal was a bustling canal, vital for trade and transport, but also a space of labor for many. The working class is ever present, though not always seen. Note the presence of horse-drawn carriages lining the canal, a stark reminder of the disparities in wealth and mobility that defined Amsterdam society. The fog blurs the image, softening the edges of the buildings, it also alludes to the smog and pollution that accompanied industrial activity. The photograph avoids idealizing Amsterdam, instead acknowledging the complexities of urban life.