Gezicht op de Graben in Wenen, Oostenrijk 1860 - 1870

This stereoscopic image shows the Graben in Vienna, Austria, and was created by Ferrier Père-Fils et Soulier. This photograph on glass is a testament to the rise of photography, and the technologies of mass media and consumption in the nineteenth century. The stereoscope allowed for mass consumption and a sense of 'being there'. The image is a duplicate, allowing the viewer to experience it in three dimensions with the use of a special viewer. In the 19th century, it was a popular and accessible form of entertainment and escapism. The process of taking this photograph would have involved a long exposure time, and a heavy camera, requiring a skilled professional to set up and operate. This would have excluded most working class individuals. The image shows a bustling street scene, capturing the architecture, monuments, and people of Vienna. The photograph is evidence of the rise of consumer culture, and the increasing commodification of images. Understanding the materials and technologies used in its creation allows us to consider the social and cultural context in which it was made and consumed, broadening our understanding of art and its role in society.