Marseille 1860 - 1862

Edouard Baldus made this photograph of Marseille using a paper negative. He was a key figure in documenting France's rapid modernization. The image presents a paradox. On one hand, the imposing fortress embodies a sense of history, power, and tradition. Yet, juxtaposed against the backdrop of industrial chimneys, we see a city embracing modernity. Baldus was commissioned to document public works, capturing bridges, train stations, and urban infrastructure. This project reflected the state's ambition to showcase progress and national pride. Here, the cultural reference to Marseille’s maritime history is undeniable. As a port city, it has always been a hub for trade and cultural exchange. The photograph subtly hints at the shifting social and economic landscape, as industry begins to overtake maritime activities. Understanding this photograph requires archival research into Baldus's commissions, France's modernization projects, and the broader social history of the time. Art becomes meaningful when we explore the institutional and historical context in which it was created.