Straat met oude huizen te Hamburg 1891 - 1962

Luigi Kasimir created this colored etching titled 'Straat met oude huizen te Hamburg,' or 'Street with old houses in Hamburg'. Kasimir came of age in a time of great change in Europe. As such, his work reflects the transition from traditional to modern life. This etching captures a narrow, almost claustrophobic street scene dominated by the towering facades of old houses. These houses, with their many windows, are representative of a particular German vernacular. Yet, despite their architectural charm, one might sense a subtle tension. The buildings seem to loom, creating a street that feels dark and confining. There is no sky. Kasimir's choice to depict this street—rather than a grand boulevard—suggests an interest in the everyday lives of ordinary people. One can't help but wonder about the history and the people who once lived and walked here. Through his delicate etching technique, Kasimir invites us to reflect on the relationship between urban space and the personal narratives that unfold within it.