Copyright: Public Domain
Giorgio Sommer captured this view of Amalfi from the coast with his camera, a tool as revolutionary as the printing press. Here, the steadfast presence of the medieval watchtower is not merely architectural; it's a symbol of vigilance, echoing throughout history from ancient Roman castra to Renaissance fortresses. These towers, like the ever-watchful Argus, speak of the human desire for security. The tower is reflected in the collective memory, reminding us of past threats and the timeless need for protection. Consider how such structures appear in illuminated manuscripts or tapestries, always representing defense but also, perhaps, a latent fear of the unknown. This photograph, like those earlier artworks, engages us on a subconscious level. The tower is not only a structure but a sign, loaded with psychological weight. The vigilance that the tower embodies is a recurring motif, adapting through time yet retaining its core significance. It is a testament to how cultural symbols evolve, shaped by history and human psychology.
Comments
The area on the Gulf of Salerno figured prominently in Giorgio Sommer’s product range. By photographing striking sites from different perspectives, he amassed a large repertoire of multifarious views. Here we see the harbour of the once-powerful maritime republic Amalfi from a slightly elevated vantage point. On the beach, nets have been spread out between the boats for patching. The long masts of the sailing vessels point our gaze to the characteristic steep cliffs. According to the Baedeker travel guide of 1867, the region offers “a charming new landscape scene at almost every turn”. The intricately interleaved and overlapping houses have carved out a place for themselves at the foot of the rugged slopes.
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