Straatbeeld in Canterbury 1847

This view of Canterbury was captured by John Muir Wood using photography, a relatively new medium in the 19th century. The image itself, a chemical creation, is remarkable for its evocation of stone, the very material that constitutes the scene. Look at the rough-hewn walls and meticulously carved arches, all rendered in subtle gradations of tone. Consider the labor involved in quarrying, transporting, and shaping these elements, and the communities of builders and artisans who brought them together. Wood's choice of photography invites us to reflect on the relationship between mechanization and craft. Photography, then and now, has democratized image-making; it has made representation more accessible while raising questions about authorship, skill, and artistic value. So, as you consider this photograph, think about not just what is depicted, but how its making reflects broader social and economic shifts, and the ever-evolving interplay between human skill and technological innovation.