Gezichten in Londen 1843 - 1876

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created "Gezichten in Londen", or "Views of London," in the 19th century using etching and engraving. The print presents a series of iconic London landmarks in a layout reminiscent of a collage. This design deconstructs the traditional landscape view, presenting London as a series of distinct, almost fragmented, experiences. Each landmark—Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Church, the Industrial Exhibition hall, St. James's Park, and The Tunnel—is rendered with detailed precision. The composition invites a semiotic reading, as the juxtaposition of different sites prompts us to consider how each contributes to the larger sign of "London." The contrast between natural spaces, religious architecture, and industrial structures could reflect the city's multifaceted identity. The act of framing these landmarks within a single print challenges the viewer to construct a holistic image of London, recognizing that the city is an amalgamation of varied spaces, each contributing to the collective urban experience.