Rue de l'Apport in Dinan 1870 - 1900

This is a photograph of Rue de l'Apport in Dinan by Étienne Neurdein. As a photographic print, its materiality resides in the interaction between light-sensitive chemicals and the paper substrate. But beyond that, it captures a moment in the life of a very physical place. The buildings lining this street are made of stone and timber, materials extracted and worked with considerable human effort. Look closely and you can see the hand of the stonemason and carpenter everywhere. These traditional building materials speak to the social context of labor and craft. Even the cobblestones underfoot bear the marks of manual labor. This wasn't just a street; it was a stage for daily life, commerce, and community. Neurdein’s photograph is a testament to the enduring presence of craft and its connection to broader social and economic realities, not just a picturesque scene. It reminds us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the skill and effort embedded in the world around us.