Ruïne van Norham Castle before 1866

This photogravure of “Ruïne van Norham Castle” was made by Thomas Annan, a Scottish photographer known for documenting the urban landscape and social conditions of Scotland during the 19th century. Annan's work often intersects with the identity and history of the working class during a period marked by industrialization. Norham Castle, with its ruined state, symbolizes a past era, and the decline of feudal structures, inviting reflection on power, class and the passage of time. The castle, while a historical landmark, becomes a stage for Annan to capture the subtle interplay between the past and present. Consider the emotional weight of ruins, not just as remnants of stone, but as silent witnesses to changing social landscapes. Annan’s choice to document this subject matter develops a narrative where the emotional and personal dimensions of history converge, prompting questions about societal values, identity, and the narratives we choose to preserve.