Straatgezicht in de wijk Azbakeya in Caïro 1860s

Wilhelm Hammerschmidt made this print of the Azbakeya district in Cairo. This photograph offers a window into the social and political dynamics of Egypt during a period of significant transformation. It was a time when the country was undergoing modernization and westernization, largely driven by the ruling Khedive dynasty. The image captures a street scene, likely reflecting the influence of European urban planning on Cairo's architecture. Elements such as wide roads and the design of buildings are indicative of this influence. Consider how the presence of both traditional Egyptian attire and European-style carriages suggests a society in transition. This cultural blending reflects Egypt's position within a globalizing world. How does the image comment on the social structures of its own time? Was it conservative or progressive? What was the purpose? To fully appreciate the social and institutional contexts, one might consult photographs, travelogues, colonial archives, and urban development plans from the period. These resources can reveal the complex interplay of power, culture, and identity that shaped the moment captured in this photograph.