Gezicht op het convento de las Salesas Reales in Madrid c. 1880 - 1890

Curator: Gazing upon this albumen print from circa 1880-1890, a view captured by Juan Laurent titled “Gezicht op het convento de las Salesas Reales in Madrid,” I’m struck by the weight of history imbued in this city view. What impressions dance in your mind? Editor: Well, it feels like a quiet afternoon, doesn't it? The stillness in the monochrome almost whispers secrets of past lives, a feeling amplified by the massive, almost stoic architecture. But, what about the building grabs your interest? Curator: The building looms, yes. Churches are really interesting buildings. Always loaded with intentions and statements. Even its placement suggests prominence, purpose—it dominates the visual space. The dome, a classic symbol of the celestial realm. Editor: It’s about spiritual ascension. A bridge to heaven. Plus, churches of this size can tell a lot about how temporal powers intertwine with faith—the politics. Does the photo capture more of these underlying elements to you? Curator: I feel the geometry suggests something profound. The fence at its base with these sort of phallic obelisk pillars perhaps an announcement about what society expects in terms of piety and procreation... an insistence on stability. And yet, there's also the soft touch of nature that can't be resisted! See how that building fades softly with age? I also appreciate Laurent's placement of the building against the light. Editor: Hmm, I notice you focusing more on elements. As for me I was feeling the weight more than any symbolism here. I find it somewhat dreamlike: frozen between the objectivity of photography and my own mind’s eye. All I get from the art here is what the picture leaves unsaid. Curator: And those unspoken stories often resonate the loudest. It’s like we're holding a tangible echo, each interpreting its whispers uniquely. That is a very nice idea! I will hang on to that sentiment for the future! Editor: Precisely! Now, to contemplate how many sun-drenched afternoons this convent has silently witnessed, a real source of contemplative experience here today.