Gezicht op de Karl Johans gate in Oslo, in de verte het Koninklijk paleis 1892

This photograph of Karl Johans gate in Oslo, with the Royal Palace in the distance, was taken by Axel Lindahl sometime between 1870 and 1900. Lindahl was one of the most productive photographers in Norway during this period. During the late 19th century, Norway was undergoing a period of nation-building, seeking to define its cultural identity. Lindahl’s photographs, which capture everyday life and landscapes, contributed to this process by creating a visual record of Norwegian society. At this time photography played a crucial role in shaping national identity and cultural memory. How did Norwegians want to see themselves? The figures captured in this photograph, the architecture, and the clear perspective reflect the values of progress, order, and national pride prevalent during this era. The image evokes a sense of longing for an idealized past and a vision of a modern future, embodying the complexities of Norwegian identity during a transformative period.