Restanten van gebouwen aan de Strada Mercurio in Pompeï c. 1860 - 1900

Giorgio Sommer captured this albumen print of the Restanten van gebouwen aan de Strada Mercurio in Pompeï, using photographic processes that were cutting-edge in their time. Consider the materiality of photography itself. It's not just about capturing an image, but also about the chemical processes and material supports that make it possible. Sommer meticulously coated paper with a layer of albumen, derived from egg whites, to create a smooth surface for the light-sensitive silver salts. The print’s sepia tones resulted from the interaction of light and chemistry, and the final mounting onto card provided stability and longevity. Sommer's choice of photography speaks to its cultural significance. Photography democratized image-making, offering a seemingly objective record of the world. This particular image invites us to reflect on labor, preservation, and the passage of time. It bridges the realms of art, science, and commerce. Paying attention to materials, making, and context allows for a richer understanding of the photograph, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.