Gezicht op de grote trap aan de voorzijde van het Paleis van Justitie in Brussel, België before 1894

This print depicts the grand staircase of the Palace of Justice in Brussels, created by an anonymous artist using photogravure, a process that chemically etches an image onto a metal plate for printing. Photogravure, a process that translates the continuous tones of a photograph into the printable form of an etching, imbues the image with a rich tonal depth. The texture achieved through this printing technique—the subtle grain and nuanced shading—reflects the laborious and precise work involved. It bridges the gap between industrial reproduction and the skilled artistry of etching. The choice of photogravure, over other printing methods, elevates the photographic image to an object of almost tactile value, reflecting the Palace's intent to project authority and permanence. It invites us to consider the immense labor involved in constructing such a monumental building, contrasting the physical effort with the mechanical means of its reproduction. Looking at this print, we are reminded that every image, whether captured by camera or crafted by hand, carries the weight of its making, embedded with cultural and social significance.