Montgomery, Alabama c. 1860s

This photograph, taken in Montgomery, Alabama by Franklin A. Gerrish, presents a striking view dominated by the Alabama State Capitol. Perched atop a gentle rise, this architectural beacon symbolizes governance and order, drawing the eye upwards. Yet, below this emblem of authority, we see a commercial space with large adds signs with the words 'Dry Goods', reminding us that in American society, the sacred and the profane are often linked. This interplay echoes through time, reminiscent of ancient Roman forums where temples stood amidst bustling marketplaces. The capitol, in its stoic grandeur, evokes the classical ideals of republicanism, yet it’s firmly planted in a landscape of trade and enterprise. Consider how, across centuries, similar structures – be they cathedrals overseeing medieval fairs or modern parliaments amidst shopping districts – reflect the same tension between spiritual aspiration and material reality. It is a dichotomy deeply embedded in our collective consciousness, resurfacing, evolving, and ever demanding our attention.