Gezicht op Donaldson's Hospital c. 1862 - 1867

Archibald Burns made this albumen print, titled "Gezicht op Donaldson's Hospital". The image presents a captivating view of Donaldson's Hospital, an institution founded in Edinburgh in the mid-19th century to care for poor children. Burns’ photograph invites us to consider the social role of institutions during the Victorian era. The architecture conveys a sense of grandeur, perhaps reflecting the philanthropic ideals of its founder. Yet it also reminds us of the complex relationship between charity, class, and social control in 19th-century Britain. Donaldson's Hospital was one of many institutions built during the period and aimed to address social problems, but also served to reinforce existing power structures. To fully understand Burns’ photograph, we might consult historical records, architectural plans, and charitable documents. We can reflect on how the image captures a moment in time and offers insights into the values, beliefs, and social realities of Victorian society.