Leipzig’s Photography Stories: Two themed guided tours of the exhibition at the Old Town Hall

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1839 saw the photographic big bang: the daguerreotype was introduced, revolutionising the world of imagery. This new technology soon reached Leipzig too, where it found a prominent representative in Bertha Wehnert-Beckmann, Europe’s very first professional female photographer, whose influence is still felt today. Drawing on her eventful life and her photographic roots, this exhibition explores the history of photography in Leipzig from the 19th century to the present day. An industrial revolution without steam and large machines, but with images that have survived to this day and offer a glimpse into Leipzig’s architectural and human past.

With Bertha Wehnert-Beckmann, who arrived in Leipzig in 1843, the daguerreotype – named after Louis Daguerre – also took root in Leipzig. The daguerreotype pictured here, dating from the revolutionary year of 1848, shows the military taking the oath of allegiance to the constitution in Leipzig on 22 March. A truly historic moment.

The story of the photographer Bertha Wehnert-Beckmann can be read in the illustrated book *Die Fotografin* (*The Photographer*) published by the City History Museum in 2015.

The City History Museum invites you to take a look behind the façade of Leipzig’s 1,000-year history. During the 60-minute guided tour led by Friederike Degner, head of the photo archive at the City History Museum, on Wednesday 19 August and on 16 September at 4.30 pm, various facets of the city’s history and the collection in the permanent exhibition at the Old Town Hall will be presented.

Close-up: Leipzig’s photographic stories, Wednesday 19 August and Wednesday 16 September, both at 4.30 pm. Old Town Hall, 1st floor, Markt 1, 04109 Leipzig. Free admission; guided tour €3 per person. Advance booking recommended: stadtmuseum@leipzig.de or 0341/9651340.