By Andrea Mubi Brighenti and Mattias Kärrholm
Published in Time & Society
Abstract
Territoriality has primarily been seen as a spatial rather than temporal phenomenon. In this paper, we want to investigate how time functions in territorialising processes. In particular, we are attracted by the multi-temporality that is copresent in each process of territorialisation (i.e. processes in which time and space are used as means of measure, control and expression). The article is divided into two main parts. In the first part, we draw inspiration from Gilles Deleuze’s book Logic of Sense, as well as from authors such as Simmel, Whitehead, Benjamin and Jesi, in order to articulate three different types of the present (Aion, Kronos and Chronos). In the second part, we move to a short case study of the collector John Soane and the establishment of his house-museum. The case is used to exemplify how these three presents can be used to discuss temporal aspects of territorialisation in general, and the production of a specific sort of territory – the house-museum as a new building type in particular.
Keywords: Territorial production, temporality of the present, multiple temporalities, Aion, Kronos, Chronos, collectionism, house-museum.
Diagram of the three presents
John Soane's house: Looking up at the Dome from the Sepulchral Chamber (photo by courtesy of Jesper Magnusson).
John Soane's house: The Breakfast Room in No. 13 Lincoln’s Inn Field. A series or mirrors and openings allow glimpses from adjacent rooms and museum spaces (photo by courtesy of Jesper Magnusson).