Gezelschap in historische kleding in boot in slotgracht 1864 - 1880

Jules Marinier created this stereo card photograph of a group in historical clothing in a boat sometime in the 19th century. Stereo cards like this one gained popularity in the mid-19th century, offering a three-dimensional viewing experience that captivated audiences hungry for both entertainment and education. The figures, dressed in what we might now call "period costumes", invite a kind of historical daydreaming. But these nostalgic images were often carefully constructed, reinforcing prevailing social hierarchies. Who was included in this idyllic scene, and who was excluded? Whose stories were being told, and whose were being erased? While appearing innocent and romantic, it subtly shaped perceptions and reinforced social norms, dictating who belonged and who was left out of the picture. This image reflects the values and assumptions of its time, and invites us to reflect on how those power dynamics continue to resonate today.