Albumin print, harbor entrance Oran, Algeria, ND Phot Neurdein Frères, late 19th century

This historical photograph shows a detailed view of the harbor entrance of Oran in Algeria, taken as an original albumin print from the strategic viewpoint of Fort Saint Grégoire. 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. In the photograph, the busy harbor basin spreads out, where numerous historical steamships as well as smaller boats lie anchored, while the functional warehouses and early harbor structures are documented on the quay. The work originates from the renowned studios of ND Phot, the official signature abbreviation of the French photographers and publishers Neurdein Brothers. Founded by Etienne Neurdein and his brother Louis Antonin Neurdein, the Paris-based company developed into one of the most important institutions for topographic documentation in the North African region during the late 19th century, undertaking extensive expeditions to capture the rapid transformation and infrastructure of Algeria for the European audience.

This print was produced during the period around the turn of the century between 1890 and 1914. From a historical perspective, these original albumin photos are of high value as they precisely preserve the maritime logistics and urban expansion of Oran during the French colonial period. The historical collector's item is available as a loose sheet and features the original dimensions of 27 x 21 cm. It shows a slight discoloration in one small spot on the upper margin and is in good age-appropriate condition with slight toning; signs of wear are corresponding to age; the bottom margin features the original white caption within the photo negative with the archive number 220, the title "Oran L Entrée du Port vue prise du Fort Saint Grégoire," as well as the studio abbreviation "ND Phot."