Gezicht op de Temple de Diane in Nîmes c. 1859 - 1865

This stereoscopic image of the Temple de Diane in Nîmes was created by F. Chevalier and A. Champeaux. Stereoscopic images like this one were a popular form of entertainment and documentation in the 19th century. The image presents a view of the ancient Roman ruins, nestled within a park-like setting. We might consider the cultural fascination with antiquity during the 1800's and how this connected to broader European identities. Photography allowed for widespread dissemination of images of historical sites, creating shared visual experiences. Think about who had access to these images. The rise of photography coincided with complex colonial and class structures. How might access to imagery such as this image of the Temple de Diane in Nîmes have been affected by these structures? Ultimately, this stereoscopic image invites us to reflect on how we construct narratives around history and identity.