Fountain near the Cathedral - Taormina 1889

This photograph of the Fountain near the Cathedral in Taormina was captured by Giuseppe Bruno in the late 19th century. It’s a study in contrasts: the smooth, carved fountain, which no doubt required a stonemason’s expert touch, and the rough-hewn buildings behind. The fountain itself is a fascinating object. We can see a multi-tiered structure, and sculpted figures adorning its base. Given the period, the photograph itself would have been a carefully constructed object, with the photographer manipulating light and shadow to create a sense of depth and texture. The photograph is more than just a record; it’s a testament to the labor involved in both its creation and the construction of the scene it depicts. It challenges us to consider how the value is assigned to different kinds of work, and to look beyond the surface to see the stories embedded in its material.