Gezicht op de parochiekerk van Ebensee, gezien vanaf de Calvarieberg 1862 - 1880

This is a stereoscopic photograph showing a view of the parish church of Ebensee, likely made in the late 19th century. The image invites us to consider the relationship between religious institutions and the communities they serve. Made in Austria, this image is interesting for what it tells us about the way the church positioned itself in relation to local society. The prominent church tower dominates the town. The photograph aestheticizes a harmonious social order beneath its gaze. Photographs like this were often produced for tourists. But it’s worth asking, what vision of Austrian society was being marketed here? Was this in any way an accurate reflection of the social and political realities on the ground? Perhaps we could explore that question further by doing some research into the local history of the region at the time.