Boten in een sluis, vermoedelijk te Rio de Janeiro 1860 - 1890

This photograph of boats in a lock, possibly in Rio de Janeiro, was taken by Marc Ferrez. Ferrez embraced photography early on, mastering the wet collodion process—a painstaking technique requiring glass plates to be coated, sensitized, exposed, and developed immediately. Notice the incredible detail Ferrez achieved. This clarity wasn't just about technical skill; it was a deliberate choice. Photography at this time was often used to document infrastructure projects, showcasing engineering prowess and the transformation of landscapes. In this case, it is the image of a boat within the dry dock, perhaps awaiting repair. The labor involved in these projects, often performed by marginalized communities, is subtly present but rarely highlighted. Ferrez's sharp focus brings these issues to the fore, prompting us to consider the human element behind Brazil's rapid modernization. It blurs the boundaries between art, documentation, and social commentary.