Gezicht op het Gildehuis der Vrije Schippers in Gent, België before 1880

This photogravure captures the Gildehuis der Vrije Schippers in Gent, Belgium, a testament to the city’s maritime history. Though the artist is unknown, the printmaking technique itself is deeply entwined with early industrial processes, specifically photo-mechanical reproduction, which allowed for the wide distribution of images. The print's tonal range is a direct consequence of the photogravure process, where an image is etched onto a copper plate and then printed, creating a rich, velvety texture. This technique was prized for its ability to capture the fine details of architectural structures, while also carrying a strong social element. The guild house represents a specific social and economic class, that of the free shippers. Looking at the architecture we can see this is a celebration of labor, politics and consumption, all caught in the net of material culture. Appreciating the intersections between craft and design, it's clear the materials, making, and context of this photogravure are important for fully grasping its significance.