Gezicht op een brug en de Santa Maria Assunta in Genua c. 1860 - 1880

This is a photograph by Adolphe Godard, presenting a view of a bridge and the Santa Maria Assunta in Genoa. The composition emphasizes symmetry and linear perspective. The bridge leads our eye directly to the church, which is centered and framed by its towers. Godard's choice to capture the scene head-on creates a sense of stability and order. The tones are muted, typical of early photography, which adds a layer of timelessness. The architectural details are crisp, revealing the texture of the stone and the geometric precision of the buildings. The symmetry isn't just a visual trick; it reinforces the church’s role as a focal point in the urban landscape. The use of symmetry here suggests an underlying structure, a way of organizing the world into balanced, understandable forms. This image invites us to consider how architecture and photography intersect, framing our perception of space and culture.