Bas du Portail, Côté de la Place, Cathédrale de Rouen 1852 - 1854

Edmond Bacot made this albumen silver print of the Rouen Cathedral in France, some time in the mid-19th century. Here, the old Gothic architecture is rendered in minute detail, creating a stark contrast between the timeless monument and the novelty of photography as a medium. This new technology allowed for unprecedented levels of realism in art. As photography became more popular, institutions such as the French Academy grew concerned about its place in the hierarchy of art. Was it merely a tool for documentation, or could it be considered high art? The Rouen Cathedral itself embodies centuries of French history, witnessing religious, political, and social upheavals. Examining architectural photographs like this alongside period documents can reveal the complex interplay between art, technology, and the institutions that shaped them. The image provides a window into understanding the cultural values of the time.