Gezicht op de Dalempoort te Gorinchem 1890 - 1915

This image of the Dalempoort in Gorinchem was made using photography, a relatively new technology at the time. Photography democratized image-making, requiring less artistic skill and labor than painting or drawing. This photographic process was highly dependent on the precise manipulation of chemical materials and techniques, such as silver-based emulsions, exposure times, and developing processes. The sepia tone is the result of specific chemical reactions, influenced by environmental conditions and processing choices, giving the image a warm, aged quality. The choice to document the Dalempoort raises questions about preservation and history. The image captures architectural details of the gate, such as brickwork, archways, and the clock tower. These details provide valuable information about construction techniques and the gate's historical context. The image becomes a tool for historical documentation and preservation, as it captures a specific moment in time. Considering the materials, the making and its context encourages a broader understanding of its cultural and historical significance.