Obelisk op het Karolinenplatz in München, Duitsland 1868

This is a stereoscopic photograph of the Obelisk in Karolinenplatz, Munich, taken by Charles Gaudin. It's a double image, designed to create a 3D effect when viewed through a special device. The obelisk itself is the main subject, a tall, tapering monument made of stone. The stone suggests permanence and durability. Its smooth surface and precise geometric form testify to skilled stone-cutting and polishing techniques. Consider the labor involved in quarrying, transporting, and shaping such a massive object, probably made from granite, porphyry, or basalt. These obelisks, often commissioned by those in power, were erected to commemorate important events, military victories, or as symbols of authority. Its presence in a public square like Karolinenplatz speaks to the monument's role in shaping the urban landscape and reinforcing social hierarchies. The photograph provides a glimpse into 19th-century Munich, capturing the built environment and offering insights into the city's history and culture. Ultimately, this photograph reminds us that even seemingly straightforward images are the result of artistic choices, technical processes, and the labor of skilled individuals. It invites us to look beyond the surface and consider the social and cultural forces that shape our world.