Kinderen rond een kerstboom 1863 - 1875

This photograph, titled "Kinderen rond een kerstboom," or "Children around a Christmas tree," was made in France and it portrays a quintessential family scene. Produced during the late 19th century when photography became more accessible, this stereoscopic image captures a tradition increasingly popular among the European middle classes. The Christmas tree, adorned with candles and ornaments, stands as a symbol of domestic harmony and bourgeois values. Looking at the cultural history of Christmas at this time, we can see how it reflects the broader social and economic changes taking place in Europe, with new forms of consumer culture emerging. The photograph would have offered viewers a glimpse into an idealised version of family life, a scene of innocence and joy centred around a shared ritual. Examining this image as a cultural historian, I would delve into the archives of photography and popular culture to understand its meanings. The image offers insights into the social values and aspirations of its time.