Gezicht op het Klein Kasteeltje in Brussel 1861 - 1870

This stereoscopic photograph of the Klein Kasteeltje in Brussels was created by BT using a camera and photographic printing techniques. Consider the labor involved in producing this image. It's not just the photographer, but the workers who extracted the silver from the earth, refined it, and prepared the photographic plates. Think about the social context, the rise of industrial capitalism, and the growing middle class eager to consume these images of far-off places and important landmarks. Photography democratized image-making and dissemination, yet was also entwined with complex social and economic forces. The photographic print itself, with its sepia tones and tangible surface, offers a unique sensory experience. This invites us to consider the relationship between technology, labor, and representation, and to look beyond the surface to see the intricate web of connections that make such an image possible. By understanding the materials, processes, and social context, we can fully appreciate the profound meaning of this artwork.