Gezicht op het Hotel de Bourgtheroulde in Rouen 1875 - 1879

Louis Jules Adeline etched this view of the Hotel de Bourgtheroulde in Rouen, capturing the architectural and societal essence of its time. The building's façade, adorned with intricate carvings, speaks of opulence and power—symbols of the elite class. The bay window, prominently displayed, is not merely an architectural feature, but a motif that echoes across centuries. Recall the windows in Renaissance portraits, framing their subjects as if presenting them on a stage. This symbol reappears in domestic interiors, evolving to represent safety, privacy, and the inward gaze of the family. The presence of figures in the street offers a glimpse into everyday life. This composition subtly evokes the concept of ‘the gaze,’ as the architecture seems to observe the lives unfolding below. It is a potent reminder of the cyclical nature of power and observation.