Journalisten op een trap, alsmede de wetenschapper en politicus Achille Jubinal (zittend links) c. 1860 - 1865

This is a vintage photograph, taken by an anonymous artist, depicting journalists and the politician Achille Jubinal on some steps. Consider how the photograph captures a moment in time where professions, like journalism and politics, were dominated by men. The composition, with its formal arrangement, presents an image of power and intellectualism, reflecting the societal roles afforded to these men. Jubinal, sitting to the left, embodies the intersection of science, politics, and privilege, further emphasizing the exclusivity of these circles. What do you feel when looking at their faces? The top hats and serious expressions might suggest authority and composure, yet perhaps you see a hint of the pressures of their public lives. The image preserves a specific historical narrative, yet it also allows us to reflect on the historical underpinnings of contemporary power structures.