Gezicht op Menton vanaf de kust c. 1886 - 1896

Henry Pauw van Wieldrecht made this photograph, ‘View of Menton from the Coast’ with the gelatin silver process. It’s a moment captured in time, but it also speaks to a moment in history. The image presents a serene view of Menton, a town on the French Riviera. The photograph’s visual codes – the grand hotels nestled into the hillside, the calm sea, and the distant mountains – evoke a sense of luxury and leisure. This was the playground of the European elite in the late 19th century. The image reflects the growth of tourism and the changing social landscape of the French Riviera. The rise of photography as a medium allowed for the mass production and distribution of such views, fueling the desire for travel and reinforcing the image of Menton as a desirable destination. Historical sources, travel guides, and social commentaries from the period can provide deeper insights into the cultural significance of this photograph. These resources help us understand the complex interplay between art, society, and the institutions that shape our perceptions.