Minoritenkirche in Keulen 1855 - 1875

Theodor Creifelds made this stereoscopic photograph of the Minoritenkirche in Cologne, Germany, sometime in the mid-19th century. Stereo photography emerged at a time when new technologies were changing our understanding of the world. At this time, Cologne was undergoing a process of reinvention. Following centuries of decline, the city was attempting to rediscover its medieval roots. In this context, the Minoritenkirche, with its gothic architecture and association with the Franciscan order, represented a link to Cologne's rich past. We might see the choice of such a subject as an appeal to the cultural and religious values of the citizens of Cologne. To understand this image more fully, we can look at how institutions, such as religious orders, shaped the urban and artistic landscape of 19th century Cologne. This kind of social and institutional history helps us reflect on the meaning of art and photography as something embedded in a specific historical context.