Toegangspoort van het stadhuis van Toulon c. 1875 - 1900

This photograph captures the entrance of the Toulon city hall, and was taken by Médéric Mieusement, who was active in France in the latter half of the 19th century. Mieusement was part of a wave of photographers who documented France's architecture and monuments. Here, the monumental doorway seems to be held up by the male figures or 'Telamons' on either side of the door. These architectural figures are often seen as symbols of strength. I wonder what it might mean to see the state—the French government—as leaning on these figures for support. Is this an acknowledgement of the working classes? Is it a reflection of the artist's social views? Or, is this just a way to show the grandeur and power of the French state? This photograph invites us to think about who and what holds up structures of power.