Graftombe van Saint-Remi in de Saint-Remi kerk te Reims 1870 - 1900

Editor: Here we have a gelatin-silver print dating from 1870-1900, "Graftombe van Saint-Remi in de Saint-Remi kerk te Reims," by Étienne Neurdein. The photo features the tomb of Saint-Remi, showcasing the Romanesque architecture of the church. It's mostly pale, a little sepia-toned and muted, which softens the monumentality. What strikes you about it? Curator: Formally, I am struck by how the photograph exploits a balance of light and shadow to articulate the architectural details. Note the crisp definition of the sculptural elements against the broader, softer areas of light within the basilica. Editor: Yes, the contrast is lovely! Curator: Indeed. Moreover, the photographic perspective guides our eye deliberately, framing the tomb within its architectural context. Consider how the photographer employs depth of field. What is highlighted, and what is purposefully blurred or left in shadow? Editor: The tomb itself is the sharpest part. It directs focus and appreciation to it. The arches behind the tomb are out of focus. Is there significance in blurring the background? Curator: Precisely! The shallow depth of field accentuates the subject—the tomb—separating it visually from the surrounding architecture. This highlights not only its physical presence but also its structural independence within the larger architectural framework. It encourages the viewer to dissect the structure, element by element. Editor: So it’s all about drawing our attention to the physical structure and our experience of that structure. I appreciate how this formalist perspective helps me understand the deliberate artistic choices made in this photograph! Curator: Precisely. And that understanding enhances our engagement.