Gezicht op de Sint-Laurentiuskerk te Oud Gastel 1899

This is an anonymous photographic print of the Sint-Laurentiuskerk in Oud Gastel. Churches are often viewed as symbols of stability, faith, and community. However, they are also deeply entwined with power dynamics. Churches have historically been places where social hierarchies are reinforced and gender roles are prescribed, dictating who can participate and in what ways. Looking at this image, consider what it means to document such a structure. Is it an act of preservation, a reflection of cultural identity, or perhaps an assertion of dominance? The photograph invites us to reflect on the complex relationship between religious institutions, community, and the individuals who navigate these spaces. How do images like this shape our understanding of history and belonging?