Namen gezien vanaf de citadel, België 1884 - 1914

Editor: So, this albumen print, "Namen gezien vanaf de citadel, België" – or "Namur Seen from the Citadel, Belgium" by Gustave Hermans, created sometime between 1884 and 1914, offers a striking cityscape. The sepia tones give it such a nostalgic feel; the roofs seem to tumble towards you, and there's an intriguing sense of distance. What stands out to you most when you look at this piece? Curator: Oh, that gentle tumble of roofs! I’m so drawn in, aren’t you? It’s almost like a memory unfolding before us. For me, it's this beautiful layering effect Hermans achieves. It isn't just a simple "overview" is it? I wonder what camera Hermans had? There is such great detail for an early print, and its like we can almost reach out and touch the rooftops. You almost forget that things smelled a bit back then. Do you feel like you can smell this city? Editor: Interesting point. Maybe I can… a whiff of coal smoke, perhaps? But regarding the details, they almost overwhelm, there are so many of them, how are you supposed to sort them? Curator: That's just it! You’re not *supposed* to sort them, just immerse yourself. Photography at this time, let me tell you, it's on the cusp, before it's commodified – the printing itself makes each image feel almost, *hand-crafted*. You have this real-time documentation but tinged with real painterly expressiveness – a very charming combination. Almost naive, do you know what I mean? Editor: I see what you mean! It’s not just recording; it’s *feeling* a place. I wouldn't want this feeling to go away! Thanks so much! Curator: And thank *you* – for reminding me to slow down and breathe in the… smoky air of Namur!