Gezicht op een zijportaal van de Kathedraal van Sint-Michiel en Sint-Goedele in Brussel 1857 - 1863

Noël Paul Chapus created this stereoscopic photograph of a side portal of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels. As we observe the cathedral’s façade, consider the historical and social contexts embedded within its stones. Built over centuries, it stands as a testament to the evolving religious and political powers that shaped Brussels. Chapus captures the imposing architecture with its intricate Gothic details. The cathedral served as a focal point for communal identity and religious expression, particularly during a period of intense social change and burgeoning nationalism. Stereoscopic images like this catered to a desire for immersive experiences. For those who may never visit the cathedral in person, this photograph offered a tangible connection. The photograph not only documents the architecture, but also provides a window into the cultural values and social dynamics of early 20th-century Europe.