[29 Glass Stereographs] 1850 - 1909

These glass stereographs, made by various artists, offer a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. They invite us to consider how institutions like banks shaped social interactions and economic power at the time. The image presents a bustling bank interior, likely from late 19th century America, judging by the fashion and technology. The architecture and decor, with their emphasis on order and transparency, reflect the values of the institution. The employees, all men, are neatly arranged, underscoring the bank’s image of reliability. The stereoscopic format itself was a technology embraced by institutions for documentation and display, making the bank seem modern and trustworthy. To fully understand this photograph, we need to delve into the social history of banking, examining its role in shaping economic hierarchies and social mobility. By researching historical records and photographic archives, we can uncover the complex relationship between financial institutions, visual representation, and societal norms.