Gezicht op de Aareschlucht nabij Meiringen, Zwitserland 1857 - 1914

This photograph of the Aareschlucht gorge near Meiringen in Switzerland was taken by Giorgio Sommer sometime between 1834 and 1914. Sommer was a German photographer who spent most of his career in Italy, catering to the burgeoning tourist industry. This image captures a moment of sublime encounter with nature, one carefully mediated for consumption. During the 19th century, sites like the Aareschlucht became increasingly accessible, transforming untouched landscapes into tourist destinations. Sommer's photograph provided an accessible, commodified experience of nature's grandeur, conveniently framed and ready for the taking. Consider the emotional impact of this photograph on its viewers then, and now. Does it evoke a sense of awe, curiosity, or perhaps a critical awareness of the changing relationship between humanity and the natural world?