Tophane fontein in Istanboel 1861 - 1870

This stereoscopic image of the Tophane fountain in Istanbul was created by Charles Gaudin. The fountain itself offers a visual manifestation of Ottoman benevolence. Erected during a time of modernization, such structures served as public works projects, reinforcing the Sultan's role as provider. The choice to capture this particular fountain, and the decision to present it in stereoscopic format, speaks to European interests in Ottoman culture. During this period, European powers were eager to understand and, in many ways, categorize the 'Orient'. Photography, particularly when presented in this immersive format, offered a seemingly objective view of a distant land. The stereoscopic format catered to a European fascination with realism and documentation. Analyzing such images requires us to consult travelogues, diplomatic records, and even early sociological studies. By doing so, we can better understand the complex interplay of power, representation, and cultural exchange that shaped both the image and its reception.