Gezicht op de haven in Warnemünde, Rostock 1889 - 1893

Willem Frederik Piek Jr. captured this view of the harbor in Warnemünde, Rostock, with photography, a relatively new medium in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, opening up new possibilities for representing the world. The photograph offers a glimpse into the bustling maritime life of the port city. Piers, boats, and buildings line the waterway, offering insights into the daily routines of the people living and working there. There are figures which appear to be tradesmen, merchants, and sailors which suggest a male-dominated labor system. The serene beauty of the harbor is subtly contrasted by the realities of labor and trade during that time, reflecting the complex social dynamics of a port city. The black and white image further enhances the sense of nostalgia and historical distance, allowing us to consider the emotional and personal connections to the past.