Gezicht op de Hogesluis aan de Amstel te Amsterdam c. 1860 - 1900

Editor: This gelatin silver print, "Gezicht op de Hogesluis aan de Amstel te Amsterdam," captures a view of Amsterdam, most likely between 1860 and 1900. What I immediately notice is how ethereal it seems, almost like a faded memory. What jumps out at you when you look at it? Curator: That's beautifully put, that sense of a faded memory! The sepia tones certainly contribute. For me, it’s about layers – of light, of history, of water reflecting architecture. Can you feel the pulse of 19th century Amsterdam, the clip-clop of horses on cobblestones, perhaps even a little mischievous breeze from the Amstel river? Editor: Yes, the sepia tones are a great way to look at this picture. Now that you point it out, the sense of the city in movement becomes obvious with carriages on the bridge. Do you think the somewhat faded appearance was intentional? Curator: I like your question. Whether intended or the natural result of time, the fading is, in a way, perfect, wouldn't you agree? Imagine what Amsterdam was like in 1880. It was likely not that crystal clear and sharp to begin with. This evokes the lived-in history; what once was a novelty becoming part of something even greater, something beautiful and historical. Editor: Absolutely. That's fascinating – thinking about the “now” becoming the historical as time continues. I’ll definitely look at older photography in a new light moving forward. Curator: Fantastic! It is always such a joy when perspectives are forever changed. What better way to connect with ourselves than by looking, really looking, at our yesterdays.