Burg Gutenfels nabij Kaub, Duitsland 1864 - 1873

Burg Gutenfels near Kaub, Germany is a photograph by Ferrier Père-Fils et Soulier. Castles, like Gutenfels, are more than just stones and mortar. They are symbols of power, control, and the complex interplay of social hierarchies throughout history. This image invites us to reflect on whose stories are told and whose are often left out. Who lived within these walls, and who was kept out? How did gender, class, and social standing shape the experiences of those connected to this castle? Consider the labor and resources required to construct and maintain such a fortress. This was a symbol of power and status for those who commissioned it, and the division of labor reflects the complex social structures of the time. This image serves as a reminder that history is not just about grand narratives, but also about the individual lives and experiences that shape our world.