Grote trap in het stadhuis te Nancy before 1896

This black and white print presents a view of the grand staircase in the Nancy City Hall. The architecture is framed by a prominent archway, creating a sense of depth and drawing our eyes upwards, emphasizing the staircase as a central element. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the texture of the stonework, while the geometric pattern of the stairs provides a strong sense of order and progression. The staircase as a form can be interpreted through a structuralist lens. The design is not merely functional but operates as a system of signs, representing hierarchy and social mobility. The staircase suggests an invitation to ascend, promising access to higher levels of civic engagement and power. The image invites us to consider how architectural spaces encode social messages, subtly shaping our perceptions and experiences.