Gezicht op een zaal op de begane grond in Kasteel Beauvoorde in Wulveringem, België before 1898

This photograph by H. Waeles depicts a ground floor room in Kasteel Beauvoorde in Wulveringem, Belgium. The image is rendered in sepia tones, emphasizing the textures and forms of the interior. Note how the room’s design seems to be entirely built around woodwork. The paneling, the furniture, even the ceiling beams are crafted from timber. The photograph captures the inherent qualities of the wood: its grain, the effects of light on its surface, and the sheer amount of labor required to transform raw material into such a highly articulated interior. We get a sense of the time, skill, and collaborative effort involved in such a project. The photograph not only documents the room but also invites reflection on the social context of its creation. This was a space of privilege. However, the immense effort of making would have rippled outward into society, requiring the work of many hands. By considering the making, we appreciate the full meaning of this photograph, challenging distinctions between fine art and craft.