Binnenplaats van de gevangenis op de Prinsegracht te Den Haag before 1908

This silver gelatin print shows the courtyard of the prison on the Prinsegracht in The Hague. Although the photographer is unknown, we can appreciate the craft involved in capturing this stark scene. The use of silver gelatin, a process refined in the 19th century, is key. Light sensitivity, archival stability and fine detail all come together in this image. This photograph, likely commissioned by Monumentenzorg, the Dutch heritage agency, would have involved careful arrangement of equipment, precise timing of exposure, and expertise in chemical development. The inherent qualities of the materials—the light-sensitive silver, the gelatin binder, and the paper support—all contribute to the photograph’s appearance and longevity. This combination of technical skill and material knowledge underscores the broader social implications of documenting sites like this prison, preserving a visual record of our history and perhaps inviting reflection on themes of justice and confinement. The print serves as a testament to the value of both meticulous craft and critical documentation.