Groepsfoto van de werklieden, 1867-1869 1867 - 1869

Editor: This albumen print, “Groepsfoto van de werklieden, 1867-1869” by Jacobus van Gorkom Jr., is quite striking. The uniformity of the workers' attire almost renders them anonymous. What statements do you feel this piece is making? Curator: It’s a powerful image. What immediately strikes me is the rigidness, the sense of enforced unity in this 'group photo' of workers. Considering its historical context, the rapid industrialization of the Netherlands during the latter half of the 19th century, one can interpret this image as a social document reflecting the changing class structure. To what extent are they posed versus real? Editor: Good question. Their formal stance implies a very controlled setting, further enforcing the distance between their lives and that of the viewer. Is this intended as a document of progress or a commentary on labor conditions? Curator: I think both interpretations can coexist. On one hand, this photograph could be seen as an emblem of industrial progress, visually asserting the success and scale of industrialization. However, critically, consider how labor is represented. Are they given agency or reduced to anonymous components of production? Editor: I never thought of it that way. It’s like their individuality is sacrificed for the sake of progress. Curator: Precisely. How do elements such as posture, facial expression, and their physical proximity to each other inform your understanding of the politics of labor during this period? Does this change your perception of the artwork now? Editor: Definitely! It gives so much to think about in regards to class, representation, and the cost of industrial advancement. It's a great moment to reflect on. Curator: Yes, viewing this through the lens of social history and labor studies makes it a complex and evocative piece of art.