Koor van de Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk te Den Haag 1890 - 1920

This photograph captures the choir of the Grote or Sint-Jacobskerk in The Hague and was produced by an anonymous photographer from Monumentenzorg. Monumentenzorg, the Dutch organization for the preservation of historical monuments, plays a significant role in how cultural heritage is documented and remembered. This image, with its careful attention to architectural detail, reflects an institutional effort to preserve a specific vision of Dutch history, one that often focuses on grand structures and established narratives. Consider the absence of people in this photograph, and the emphasis on the church’s physical structure. This choice reflects a particular sensibility about history, one that emphasizes permanence and tradition, and thus subtly shaping our understanding of the past. As you consider this image, reflect on the stories and perspectives that may be included or excluded.