Gezicht op de Eiffeltoren 1870 - 1900

Étienne Neurdein created this albumen print of the Eiffel Tower in France. This tower, a symbol of modernity, soars over a busy river, reflecting France's industrial ambitions at the end of the 19th century. The photograph itself, mass-produced as a souvenir, speaks to a changing culture of tourism and spectacle. Consider the historical context: France, recovering from past conflicts, sought to reassert its global status through technological innovation and international exhibitions. The Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World's Fair, was the centerpiece of this effort, showcasing French engineering prowess and attracting visitors from around the globe. Further research into exhibition catalogs and period publications will give us insight into the social and cultural values that shaped this iconic structure. By analyzing the interplay between artistic representation, technological advancement, and national identity, we can better understand the politics of imagery and the public role of art in turn-of-the-century France.