Kuurzaal van Mariánské Lázně 1855 - 1868

This stereoscopic photograph shows the Kuurzaal in Mariánské Lázně, captured by František Fridrich. The sepia tones and meticulous composition immediately evoke a sense of historical formality and order. Fridrich’s formal approach structures the image, emphasizing lines, geometric shapes, and the play of light and shadow. The building's facade with its rhythmic repetition of arched windows and strong horizontal lines creates a visual balance and harmony, reflecting the architectural principles of classical design. The symmetry enhances the feeling of stability and permanence but this is mediated by the soft, diffused light, lending a certain ethereal quality to the scene. Fridrich's photograph encapsulates a specific cultural moment, using formal elements to convey the values of its time, yet also inviting ongoing engagement with questions of representation and historical memory.