Gildehuis van de viskopers, Gent 1872 - 1875

This photograph by Jules Hippolyte Quéval captures the Gildehuis van de Viskopers in Gent. The image is rendered in tones of sepia and umber, typical of photographic prints of this era. Consider the labor involved. The making of this photograph required the mixing of chemical baths, the careful manipulation of light and shadow during exposure, and the skilled printing of the final image. These processes, though technical, are imbued with the artistry of Quéval. But let’s think beyond the person who triggered the camera – what about those that erected the building in the first place? The architectural subject speaks to a history of craftsmanship and construction. Each stone was carefully cut and placed, and the sculptures carefully placed, testament to a wealth of skill and dedication. Guild houses like this one were statements of collective labor, and stand as a testament to the social and cultural values embedded in the built environment. By appreciating the materials, processes, and social context involved, we can gain a richer understanding of both the photograph and the building it depicts, moving beyond conventional notions of fine art to embrace the significance of craft and materiality.