Diana van Versailles in het Neues Museum, Berlijn 1868 - 1870

This is a stereo card photograph, made by Johann Friedrich Stiehm. It presents a view of the statue of Diana of Versailles. Notice how the composition is structured around the interplay between the sculptural forms and the architectural space. The statue, with its dynamic pose and textured drapery, stands in contrast to the smooth, geometric lines of the surrounding alcove. Stiehm’s choice to capture this juxtaposition is a deliberate act of framing, turning our attention not just to the classical subject, but also to the formal qualities of line, shape, and volume. The photograph uses tonal variation to create depth and draw the eye. The semiotic interplay between the marble textures and the photographic medium creates a multi-layered viewing experience. Ultimately, Stiehm’s photograph invites a reconsideration of how we perceive classical forms within modern contexts. It highlights the way that representation shapes our understanding of both art and history.