Gezicht op Keulen bij avond c. 1896

Carel Nicolaas Storm van 's-Gravesande created this view of Cologne at night with etching. Born in the Netherlands in 1841, Storm van 's-Gravesande belonged to a generation of artists grappling with modernity and industrialization. Look at how the image is dominated by the silhouettes of Cologne’s architecture. These structures represent more than just buildings; they embody centuries of cultural, religious, and political power. Consider the emotional impact of the image’s muted tones and the stark contrast between light and shadow. The artist uses the dark palette to emphasize the looming presence of the city. Consider also the role of the river, acting as both a divider and a connector, reflecting the city's image while also hinting at the constant flow of people and goods that shape its identity. Storm van 's-Gravesande invites us to contemplate the weight of history and the way we perceive our place within the urban landscape.