Reisalbum met foto's van bezienswaardigheden in Italië en Zuid-Frankrijk c. 1860 - 1900

This is a travel album featuring photographs of Italy and Southern France, created by various makers. The album presents a stark contrast between the smooth spine and the textured front cover. The deep red hue dominates, yet it is the gold lettering which draws the eye, its ornate typeface suggesting a curated collection within. The book as an object plays with our understanding of semiotics. A book is typically a collection of written text. The presence of photographs in an album like this challenges that definition, presenting a visual narrative in place of the written word. What do we make of the placement of text on the front cover? Does it highlight the role of the author, or the curated collection within? Consider how the materials and design—the choice of color, texture, and typeface—communicate ideas about travel, memory, and cultural collection. As you reflect on the album's presentation, think about how this design influences your perception and interpretation of its contents.