Line of houses c. 1844

Peter Becker made this drawing titled 'Line of Houses' with graphite on paper sometime in the 19th century. While unassuming, this sketch opens a window onto the transformation of urban spaces in Europe during the industrial era. Becker's quick strokes capture the stark geometry of urban architecture that was rapidly reshaping the social landscape. Look closely and you'll notice a series of tightly packed buildings, perhaps indicative of the cramped living conditions typical of burgeoning industrial cities in Germany. The absence of human figures amplifies the sense of alienation, a common theme in depictions of modern life at the time. By examining records, architectural plans, and social surveys of 19th-century Frankfurt, we can better understand the historical context of this work. Becker’s sketch becomes a valuable document, reflecting the social and institutional forces that shaped not only the art, but the very fabric of urban life.