Albumin print, Oran harbor, Algeria, Djebel Murdjadjo, Compagnie Generale Transatlantique, ND Phot, circa 1880

This historical photograph shows a detailed view of the harbor of Oran in Algeria with the prominent mountain Djebel Murdjadjo in the background, taken as an original albumin print. The albumin process used was the dominant photochemical technique of that era, in which egg white was used to bind the light-sensitive silver salts to the paper, giving the photographs their characteristic warm sepia tone, a soft glossy surface, and high detail sharpness. The image composition was photographed from the well-known Promenade de l'Étang and documents the early infrastructural development of the Algerian coastal city during the French colonial period. At the center of the harbor facilities, a large warehouse stands out, featuring the historical inscription "Compagnie Generale Transatlantique" and serving as an important logistics hub for shipping. Along the docks, ships are indicated and the railway tracks of an early railroad are documented, identifying the harbor as a significant modern trading center.

The authorship is undisputedly attributed to the renowned French publishing house Neurdein Frères under the well-known brand ND Phot due to the original text in the photo negative. This print was produced around the year 1880, during the formative phase of North African transportation. From a historical perspective, this original albumin photo is of high value as it preserves the connection between maritime steam shipping and rail transport as an authentic visual document.

The historical collector's item is available as a loose sheet, features the original dimensions of 27,2 x 20 cm, and is in good condition despite its age with slight toning; partially somewhat yellowed margins as well as small age-related tears; a repaired tear along the bottom margin, which causes the sheet to be slightly wavy in this area with the tear still somewhat visible (see photo). The bottom margin features the original white text within the negative: "Oran - Le Port, vue prise de la Promenade de Létang - ND Phot".