Gezicht op de Hervormde Kerk te Midwolde 1897

This is an anonymous photograph of the Reformed Church in Midwolde. The image is rendered in a sepia tone, which gives a warmth and historical depth. The rough texture of the church's brickwork is visible, indicating a manual process of bricklaying, a labor-intensive craft. The image reveals the material qualities of the church, a modest structure built to last using local materials, and which has born witness to the social life of this community. Photography itself, though a relatively new medium at the time, parallels the tradition of building through precise labor; the creation of a photograph requires careful attention to detail, with meticulous mixing of chemicals, and precise timing of exposure. This image thus is more than just a depiction of a building; it embodies the intersection of architecture, labor, and the rise of photographic technology, offering a glimpse into the material culture of its time, and challenging any rigid boundaries between art, craft, and industry.