Gezicht op het Grand Hotel in Napels en het aanliggend plein c. 1870 - 1900

Giorgio Sommer captured this view of the Grand Hotel in Naples and its adjacent square using albumen silver print, a process common in the 19th century. The tonal range of the print, from deep shadows to bright highlights, is achieved through careful manipulation of the photographic process. Sommer’s technique involved coating paper with albumen, derived from egg whites, before sensitizing it with silver nitrate. This created a smooth surface ideal for capturing fine details and subtle gradations of light. The materiality of photography is often overlooked, but in Sommer’s time, it was a labor-intensive craft. Each print required precise chemical preparation and skillful handling, reflecting a deep understanding of materials and processes. By focusing on the craft involved in creating this image, we gain a new appreciation for the artistry behind it and its historical context.