[Pair of Early Stereograph Views of London, England] 1850 - 1879

This pair of early stereograph views captures London through the lens of a 19th-century camera. The dominant symbol here is the clock tower, a representation of time and, by extension, the inexorable march of progress and modernity. The clock tower, which we see replicated in two images for stereoscopic effect, calls to mind the ancient obelisks of Egypt, which served as sundials and symbols of temporal power. Over time, the clock has evolved into a potent emblem of control and regulation, both societal and personal. The presence of the clock here reflects a psychoanalytic dimension, suggesting the anxieties and aspirations tied to industrialization and the modern age. This image engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, evoking the tension between tradition and progress. It is a powerful reminder of how we perceive and engage with the concept of time itself.