Gezicht op de kathedraal van Straatsburg before 1894

Charles Bernhoeft made this photograph of Strasbourg Cathedral, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. The image presents a view of the cathedral framed by the surrounding buildings, emphasizing its imposing height. Bernhoeft was based in Luxembourg, and the image speaks to the cultural and political context of the Alsace region, which was contested between France and Germany during this period. The towering cathedral can be seen to represent the cultural identity of Strasbourg. Religious architecture often embodies civic pride and cultural values and can even be used as a tool for expressing power and identity. Photographs like this one played a role in shaping perceptions of cities and cultural monuments during the rise of mass media. By studying photographs, architectural plans, and historical documents, we can better understand the relationship between art, identity, and politics in this complex historical moment.