Loop van een geweer before 1867

This is a photograph of the inner workings of a rifle, created by Edouard Magis. Born in the shadow of the Napoleonic era, Magis lived through a time of massive industrial and military advancement in Europe. His photographs offer us insight into a period where war and technology were becoming increasingly intertwined. Think about the idea of progress during this era, especially relative to warfare. How did industrialization change what conflict looked like? This image makes me think about the individual versus the state. Who operates this gun? Who are they fighting for and against? How does it feel to hold this gun? The image offers not only a historical record, but also an entry point for reflecting on power, conflict, and the human cost of progress.