Objekt 2408
Prison for criminals and prostitutes
Description
The Spalenschwibbogen, seen here from the Spalenvorstadt, was a city gate
in the inner fortification ring in the direction of Alsace. After the outer city
wall was built in the 14th century, the Spalen Gate assumed this function.
Until well into the 18th century, the tower served as a prison for dangerous
criminals as well as prostitutes, and was equipped with torture equipment.
In 1838, the derelict Spalenschwibbogen was the first gate of the city fortifications
to be torn down. Probably this picture was created to mark the
event of its demolition.
Object description
View of the Spalenschwibbogen
painter: Constantin Guise (1811–1858)
Basel, c. 1838
oil on canvas
acquisition
Inv. 1999.2.