Römerberg in Frankfurt am Main 1860 - 1875

Editor: This print, “Römerberg in Frankfurt am Main,” made sometime between 1860 and 1875 by C.Fr. Ansius, shows us a slice of daily life through the lens of early photography. It’s incredibly still, almost frozen, despite the signs of activity. What details capture your attention in this piece? Curator: You know, looking at this image feels a bit like stepping back in time – doesn’t it? The architecture looms, and even though the people are small, they are such a powerful connection to the everyday hustle of a bygone era. The photographer seems keen to give us a feel for the place and time, but did you notice how the long exposure smooths things out into an almost dreamlike atmosphere? What do you think the choice to depict a city square signifies about civic life at the time? Editor: That stillness definitely adds to the sense of history! Focusing on a public square…maybe it reflects the importance of community and shared spaces in the 19th century? Curator: Exactly! Public squares have always been these hubs of communication, political demonstrations and celebrations. What might this scene suggest about Frankfurt's identity or aspirations at that time? Editor: I guess I hadn’t thought about it so politically. For me, it’s always just been a pretty picture. Curator: And that’s absolutely fair enough! Sometimes, an image simply speaks to you on an emotional level, regardless of context. The personal connection is really crucial too. Now what will you think about when seeing similar architecture from this period in another city? Editor: That’s a great point. Now I am thinking about the political context too and those subtle details which give the city its particular sense of character and time.