Gezicht op de haven te Genua 1742 - 1801

This is Georg Balthasar Probst’s, “View of the Port of Genoa,” a print offering a glimpse into 18th-century maritime life. Born in Augsburg, Germany, Probst was part of a family known for their detailed city views and maps. In this bustling harbor scene, we see ships, soldiers, and workers, revealing the intersection of trade, military power, and labor that defined Genoa's identity. The print flattens and simplifies the complexities of 18th century port life. Yet, there's a tension here, as the print romanticizes the industry of labor, while eliding the exploitation inherent in this globalized world. Consider the role of Genoa as a powerful maritime republic, deeply involved in Mediterranean trade. This perspective shapes what Probst chooses to show us, and what he leaves out. The detailed rendering invites us to reflect on how commercial and military activities shaped urban spaces and social structures. Probst’s print not only captures a specific locale, but also reflects broader themes of power, representation, and the human impact on urban development.