Binnenplaats van Corpus Christi College in Oxford before 1866

William Savage’s photograph captures the Binnenplaats of Corpus Christi College in Oxford, part of a series documenting historic architecture. Photography in England, during the 19th century, was more than mere documentation. It was tied to national pride and the preservation of cultural heritage. Educational institutions such as Oxford were viewed as symbols of British intellectual and cultural power. Savage’s choice of subject matter underscores the significance of these spaces in shaping national identity. The photograph is devoid of people, emphasizing the architectural form. This decision speaks to the priorities of the time, focusing on institutional legacy rather than the everyday life within its walls. Analyzing such images within the context of British social and institutional history reveals much about the values and priorities of the Victorian era. By examining archives and institutional records, we can gain a deeper understanding of the photograph’s historical significance.