Banderillero valt een stier aan in de stierenvechtersarena van Carretera de Aragon te Madrid c. 1880 - 1890

Juan Laurent captured this albumen silver print of a bullfight in Madrid. Bullfighting, deeply entrenched in Spanish culture, represents more than just sport; it's a ritual embodying themes of life, death, masculinity, and national identity. The photograph frames the bullfighter, the banderillero, as he confronts the bull, a dance of dominance and skill. The crowd, a sea of faces, underscores the communal aspect of this event, reflecting shared cultural values and social hierarchies. Yet, beyond the spectacle lies questions of violence, tradition, and the ethics of entertainment. As a cultural practice bullfighting has always been contentious, embodying a complex interplay of tradition, identity, and morality. Laurent’s photograph offers a glimpse into a world where cultural identity and ethical considerations clash, challenging us to confront the uncomfortable aspects of tradition.