Ruïne van Brederode, Santpoort-Zuid 1867 - 1883

This photograph of Brederode ruin in Santpoort-Zuid was taken by Pieter Oosterhuis. It is a salted paper print, an early photographic process known for its soft, matte finish and subtle tonal range. What's remarkable is how Oosterhuis renders the rough texture of the stonework. Look at the way the light catches the broken edges and crumbling surfaces, creating a tactile quality. The process itself gives the image a sense of depth, almost like looking at the ruin in person. Photography, like other forms of image-making, involves a complex interplay of labor, materials, and technology. Consider the labor involved in preparing the salted paper, setting up the shot, and developing the print. These technical processes are often overlooked. By focusing on the material qualities and the labor involved, we can appreciate the artistic skill of the photographer. It challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.