Masses of lava slag at Alta Vista before 1886

This stereoscopic image of lava slag was produced by Charles Piazzi Smyth, likely in the late 19th century, using photographic techniques. Notice the dual images, carefully aligned to create a three-dimensional effect when viewed through a stereoscope. Photography in this era was a complex chemical and optical process. The photographer was also a skilled technician. The choice of subject matter is also interesting. Smyth wasn't capturing a portrait or landscape. Instead, he draws our attention to the rough texture and form of the volcanic rock. It’s almost geological in its focus. Consider the amount of labor and time involved in producing this image. From the physical labor of transporting equipment, to the intellectual labor of understanding the science, this speaks to the commitment to revealing the hidden structures of the world through both art and science. It really bridges the gap between artistic representation and scientific documentation.