Jérusalem, Saint-Sépulcre, Bas-relief (porte d'entrée) 1854 - 1859

This photograph captures a bas-relief at the entrance to the Saint-Sépulcre in Jerusalem, taken by Auguste Salzmann in the mid-19th century. The image focuses on the stone carving above the doorway. Notice the texture, the way the light plays across the surface, revealing the skill involved in shaping the stone. The photograph itself is an albumen print, a process involving coating paper with egg white and silver nitrate, then exposing it to light through a negative. Consider the labor, the skill, the time, and the traditions involved. Stone carving, an ancient craft, transformed into a reproducible image through photography. It is no longer a unique object but an image that can be disseminated widely. Salzmann’s work sits at this interesting intersection between craft and reproducibility. By understanding the materials, the making, and the context, we gain a deeper appreciation for both the artistry and the historical significance of this artwork.