Fotoreproductie van een tekening van het Bibliopolium van Johannes Müller aan de Kalverstraat te Amsterdam 1884 - 1900

This is a reproduction of a drawing of Johannes Müller's bookshop on Kalverstraat in Amsterdam, made by Alexandre & Cie. The image shows the bookshop’s facade, surrounded by portraits of figures of importance. The photographic reproduction transforms a traditional craft, drawing, into a commodity, available for wider distribution. Notice the interior scene to the left, depicting people working around a table, contrasting with the printing press and stacks of books on the right. The image seems to be a celebration of knowledge, progress, and commerce. Consider the amount of labor involved in the book trade. From the writers and thinkers whose portraits surround the building, to the physical making of the paper, printing, and binding – all of these processes contribute to the final product. By focusing on the material and means of production, we can start to understand the social and cultural significance of this image, challenging the traditional distinction between commerce and culture.