Portaal van de Kerk van het Heilige Kruis te Bordeaux c. 1875 - 1900

This is a photograph, made by Neurdein Frères, of the Portal of the Church of the Holy Cross in Bordeaux. The materiality of photography is often overlooked, but consider what’s actually involved: light-sensitive chemicals are applied to paper, which is then exposed and developed. It’s a highly technical process, and in this case, the result is a sepia-toned image that captures the intricate stone carving of the church portal. Think of the labor involved, not just in the original construction of the church, but also in the photographic process itself. From the preparation of the chemicals to the careful composition of the shot, every step requires skill and attention. This photograph isn’t just a record of a building, it’s a testament to the collaborative labor of architecture and photography. By recognizing the material processes behind it, we can appreciate the social and cultural significance embedded within it, challenging the traditional divide between fine art and craft.