De maan c. 1857 - 1862

Warren De la Rue created this stereoscopic photograph of the moon, a celestial body that has long captured human imagination, during the mid-19th century. De la Rue was at the forefront of applying photography to astronomy, a period when scientific advancement was deeply intertwined with colonial expansion and the desire to map and understand the world. As you look at this image, consider the cultural meanings associated with the moon, which differ across societies and throughout history. The moon has been seen as a symbol of femininity, mystery, and the subconscious, influencing tides and perhaps even human behavior. De la Rue’s photograph, while scientifically motivated, also taps into the human fascination with the cosmos. It invites us to reflect on our place in the universe, and on the symbolic weight we give to celestial bodies like the moon. This photograph represents the emotional and personal connections that are interwoven with our scientific endeavors.