Twee kinderen op het Petersfriedhof, Salzburg 1862 - 1880

This stereoscopic photograph shows the St. Peter's Cemetery in Salzburg, taken by Baldi & Würthle. The composition draws on both religious and romantic sensibilities, a tension typical of the era in which it was made. It was likely produced in the mid-to-late 19th century when the middle class was eager to expand their cultural horizons through the relatively new technology of photography. Stereoscopic images like this one became quite popular due to their ability to offer a simulated three-dimensional experience. The choice of the cemetery, with the children in the foreground, reflects the period’s fascination with mortality and its complex relationship with religious faith. It is a reminder that the meaning of this artwork is embedded in its social and cultural context. Understanding this requires looking into the historical reception of photography and the cultural practices associated with cemeteries. These can be gleaned from photographic journals, newspaper advertisements, and religious tracts.