Gezicht op Paleis Kneuterdijk, Den Haag 1857 - 1863

This is a photograph of Gezicht op Paleis Kneuterdijk in Den Haag, by L. Fizanne of Paris. The image gives us a glimpse into the rigid social structures of 19th century Europe. The Palace, captured in a moment of quietude, stands as a symbol of power and privilege. It embodies the ideals of monarchy and aristocracy during a time when revolutionary ideas about equality and democracy were beginning to take hold. As such, it has a complicated place in history, as this palace was home to royalty who possessed immense wealth and influence, but it also bore witness to various political and social upheavals. Fizanne, as the photographer, plays a role in shaping how we view this symbol. Whose gaze are we adopting here and what is being left out of frame? Consider how the composition and the very act of capturing this image serve to either reinforce or challenge existing power dynamics. How does it feel to be kept outside?