Gezicht op het kasteel en de omgeving van Blonay, Zwitserland before 1897

This photogravure of Blonay Castle and its surroundings in Switzerland was made by A. Düeil at an unknown date. This image exists within the context of late 19th and early 20th-century European landscape photography, a genre deeply entwined with emerging national identities and the romanticization of nature. Switzerland, with its dramatic Alpine scenery, became a popular subject, embodying ideals of natural beauty and national pride. Consider how the image, with its focus on the castle, evokes a sense of historical continuity and cultural heritage. The inclusion of the surrounding landscape situates the castle within its geographical and social context, reflecting a harmonious relationship between human settlement and the natural world. Analyzing such works involves researching the historical context of Swiss nationalism, the development of tourism in the region, and the role of photography in shaping perceptions of national identity. The history of photography is itself an important institution here. By understanding the social conditions that shaped the production and reception of this image, we can gain insights into the complex interplay between art, culture, and society.