Gezicht op het Palacio de las Cortes in Madrid c. 1880 - 1890

Juan Laurent created this photograph of the Palacio de las Cortes in Madrid sometime in the mid-19th century. Laurent was one of the most important photographers in 19th-century Spain. He produced images during a period of intense political and social change. The Palacio de las Cortes was built in the mid-19th century as a symbol of Spain’s burgeoning democracy, yet this construction took place during the reign of Isabella II, who was known for her authoritarian style of leadership. Laurent's photographs of Spanish architecture and urban life often present a vision of modernity and progress. He seemed to reflect the aspirations of the Spanish middle class. Consider the implications of photographing this building during a period of political tension, with the authoritarian monarchy attempting to convey an idea of democracy. Ask yourself, what does it mean to build a “palace” for the people?