Zuilenrij in het Alhambra te Granada c. 1850 - 1880

Juan Laurent captured this stereoscopic photograph of the Alhambra in Granada, likely in the 1860s or 70s. The sepia tones lend a dreamlike quality to the architectural scene. The repetition of columns recede into the depth of the composition and our eyes are drawn to the play of light and shadow. The stereoscopic format invites us to consider questions about the nature of perception and representation. This method, popular in the 19th century, mimics binocular vision, aiming to create a three-dimensional image from two slightly different perspectives. However, it also highlights the artifice inherent in photographic representation. Laurent's choice of subject matter is also significant. The Alhambra, with its rich history and intricate designs, became a symbol of Spanish cultural heritage. By documenting its architecture, Laurent was engaging with broader discussions about national identity, preservation, and the relationship between past and present. Photography can be seen not merely as a recording device but as an active participant in cultural discourse.