Portret van Ludwig Auer in het toneelstuk 'Der heilige Florian' 1913 - 1915

This photograph captures Ludwig Auer in character for the play "Der heilige Florian." The image, now housed at the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of its time, though the exact date and photographer remain unknown. Auer is seen holding a water container and a torch, key props that allude to the play's narrative and its connection to Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters. The image creates meaning through its depiction of theatrical performance, a vital form of public expression and entertainment. The choice of subject matter reflects a society deeply rooted in religious traditions, folklore, and community values. The play, and consequently the photograph, likely reinforced existing social norms while providing a space for collective emotional experience. Historians delve into playbills, reviews, and audience reception records to understand the broader context of such cultural artifacts. The photograph reminds us that art is always contingent on its social and institutional environment.