Gezicht op Hyères 1896

Étienne Neurdein made this photograph, titled "Gezicht op Hyères", using a photographic process sometime in the late 19th century. The image presents a bird's-eye view of Hyères, a town on the French Riviera, capturing its architectural layout and natural setting. Consider the rise of photography during this period and its impact on visual culture. Photography democratized image-making, challenging the dominance of traditional art forms like painting. Also, the image was likely intended for commercial distribution as a souvenir or travelogue. As such, Neurdein's image promotes Hyères as a desirable destination, catering to the burgeoning tourism industry and the interests of travelers seeking picturesque views and cultural experiences. To fully understand this image, we can research the history of Hyères, its economic development, and its role as a resort town. By doing so, we can better understand the cultural and historical significance of Neurdein's photograph and its place within the broader context of 19th-century European society.