Gezicht op Brugge met de toren van het Belfort before 1875

This photograph of Bruges with the Belfort tower was made by Stephen Thompson. We can observe the serene waterways of Bruges. The image creates meaning through its formal composition, the calm water mirroring the impressive Belfort tower. This photograph, a product of 19th-century Europe, speaks to the burgeoning interest in documenting urban landscapes and architectural marvels. Bruges, a city with a rich history of trade and cultural exchange, would have been seen as an ideal subject for capturing the essence of European heritage. The institutional context of photography at the time is also key. As photography became more accessible, it played a vital role in shaping public perceptions of cities. Images like these reinforced the idea of Europe as a repository of historical and artistic treasures. Understanding the social and institutional context helps us appreciate how photography shapes our understanding of places and cultures. Through careful research, we can uncover the layers of meaning embedded within these images.