Toeschouwers bij de automobielrace Parijs-Vienne bij hun op een stoep geparkeerde voertuigen 1902 - 1906

Delizy’s vintage photograph captures spectators gathered around their vehicles during the Paris-Vienna automobile race. Although the date is not certain, the image provides a fascinating glimpse into the era's burgeoning fascination with technology and speed. During this period, automobiles were symbols of wealth and progress, largely accessible only to the upper classes, so while the race itself might have captured widespread attention, the reality of who could participate, both as drivers and spectators, reflected existing social hierarchies. The men in suits, huddled around the vehicles, suggest a sense of camaraderie and excitement. The image invites us to reflect on the relationship between technological advancement and social stratification and makes me wonder about those who were excluded from this vision of progress.