Heidenturm in Neurenberg 1868 - 1888

This stereoscopic photograph of the Heidenturm in Nuremberg was produced by Johann Friedrich Stiehm. It’s made with a photographic process that involves capturing two images and then viewing them together to create a three-dimensional effect. Stereoscopy was more than just a clever trick; it was a reflection of the times. As photography became more accessible, it democratized image-making, allowing people to capture and share their experiences in ways previously unimagined. Stiehm was one of many photographers who took to the streets, documenting architecture and cityscapes for a public eager to consume these images. The real magic, though, lies in the way these images were made. The process required precision and skill, from preparing the glass plates to carefully controlling the exposure and development. When viewed through a stereoscope, the image pops into three dimensions. Looking at this photograph, it's important to consider the social context in which it was created. Photography was a rapidly evolving technology, and photographers like Stiehm were pushing the boundaries of what was possible.