Scene near Godalming, Surrey c. 1856

Alfred Rosling captured this image, "Scene near Godalming, Surrey," using photography, a medium that was still relatively new. The image presents a quiet stream cutting through a lush landscape in Surrey, England, during a time of significant industrial and social change. Rosling’s choice to focus on the untouched beauty of the English countryside speaks to a broader cultural narrative, where the pastoral landscape was seen as a site of purity and escape. The image evokes a sense of tranquility, offering a respite from the rapidly changing urban environments. Consider the social and cultural context: the rise of photography democratized image-making, yet access and representation were often skewed along lines of class. This scene, carefully composed, also hints at notions of English identity tied to the land. As you observe the photograph, ponder how it invites reflection on our relationship with nature.