Gezicht op Nevsky Prospekt in Sint-Petersburg c. 1880 - 1900

This photograph captures Nevsky Prospekt in Saint Petersburg. The photographer, J. Daziaro, frames this central thoroughfare with incredible detail. The picture provides insight into the social stratification of late 19th-century Russia. Look closely and you'll notice the variety of people populating the scene. From the smartly dressed bourgeoisie in horse-drawn carriages to the working class on foot. The street was a stage where class distinctions were constantly on display. Gender also plays a role, with women often seen with parasols, a sign of bourgeois status, and restrictive social norms. It's difficult to ignore the vastness of the street itself, reflecting the ambitions of imperial Russia. It serves as a reminder of the complex interplay of social classes, gender roles, and imperial power that shaped the lives of people in this era. It makes you wonder about the stories of individuals within this busy cityscape.