Nice, de haven en het achterland gezien vanuit het zuidoosten c. 1883 - 1888

Étienne Neurdein made this photograph, titled "Nice, de haven en het achterland gezien vanuit het zuidoosten" – Nice, the harbor, and the hinterland seen from the southeast – sometime in the late 19th century. Photography was no longer a new technology at this time, but it still involved considerable expertise. The photographer had to be a master of chemistry, optics, and composition. Looking at this print, we can admire Neurdein's mastery of his medium. The tonal range is beautifully captured, with soft gradations in the sky and sea. Even the distant mountains are clearly visible. The photograph is also interesting as a historical document. It shows us what Nice looked like in the late 19th century, before the advent of mass tourism. The harbor is busy with activity, but the town itself is still relatively small and quiet. This photograph reminds us that even the most popular tourist destinations have a history, and that they were once very different places than they are today. It is important to consider photography as a form of craftsmanship, with its own set of skills and traditions.