Schreierstoren te Amsterdam before 1894

Editor: So, here we have a gelatin silver print from before 1894, titled "Schreierstoren te Amsterdam", by Charles L. Mitchell. It’s presented within the pages of a book. I'm immediately drawn to its serene quality. It's a quiet cityscape. What do you see in this photograph, beyond just a pretty picture of old Amsterdam? Curator: Oh, it’s so much more than just ‘pretty,’ isn’t it? It whispers secrets of journeys, doesn't it? Imagine being in the darkroom when it was developed. Mitchell probably held his breath, hoping to capture the feel of the city… It's about the yearning for far-off lands, the dreams – and tears, literally – that sailed away from that very tower. Editor: The "Tower of Tears," right? So, it's a sentimental place then? Curator: Exactly! It's thought sailors bid farewell to loved ones from there before long voyages. Can you almost feel that palpable emotion? Also, note how Mitchell positions the tower within the watery environment - he gives it weight with those reflections. It almost looks as though it’s part of the river. Clever stuff! Does the photographic medium play any role for you? Editor: Now that you mention it, the tonal range in this gelatin silver print does give a very timeless feeling, which I guess emphasizes the historical weight. It does carry those emotions quite powerfully. Curator: Precisely. It's a portal to the past. And now, armed with our little insights, the tower maybe holds just a tiny bit less of its secrets... Or perhaps a little bit more! What do you think? Editor: I definitely see it in a new light, a deeper appreciation for its context makes a difference for me! Thank you!