Sarcofaag in museum te Arles c. 1860 - 1915

This photograph captures a sarcophagus in the museum at Arles, and was created by the Neurdein Frères. The studio, active in the latter half of the 19th century, documented architecture, landscapes, and antiquities, often catering to a growing interest in historical and exotic subjects. This image presents a juxtaposition of death, history, and the gaze of the 19th century viewer. The sarcophagus, adorned with relief sculptures, speaks to ancient funereal rites and beliefs about the afterlife. The photograph serves as a mediator, capturing a moment in time when the past is made present, and is displayed for study and contemplation. Consider how photography, as a relatively new medium at the time, democratized access to historical artifacts. It allowed individuals to engage with the past in a tangible way. But it also framed these encounters through the lens of colonialism and orientalism, shaping perceptions of different cultures and histories. This photograph invites us to reflect on how we engage with history and how our own perspectives shape our understanding of death, legacy, and cultural heritage.