[Brick architecture in Lübeck] c. 1930s

Curator: This haunting photograph, attributed to Laurence Feininger, is titled "Brick architecture in Lübeck." The negative shows a street scene dominated by imposing brick buildings and what appears to be a procession of blurred figures. Editor: My first impression is of a ghostly stage set. The inverted tones create a dreamlike quality, and the architectural lines give a very strong sense of perspective. Curator: Lübeck, a city in Northern Germany, has a rich history as a major trade center. Its architecture reflects its Hanseatic past, with the use of brick symbolizing its economic power and civic identity. The figures, although ghostly, represent a population tied to the city’s economic vitality. Editor: Yes, the way the light falls—or rather, doesn't fall—emphasizes the geometric forms. The repetition of windows and arches creates a powerful rhythm. It's all about the structural interplay. Curator: But it's also about how social structures shape physical space. Who had access to these buildings? Who walked these streets? The photograph invites us to consider those power dynamics. Editor: Perhaps. But its formal composition, using inverted light and shadow to emphasize geometry and depth, speaks volumes on its own. Curator: A valuable reminder of the interplay between form and context. Editor: Indeed. A fascinating piece.