Zuil van Phocas, Rome 1861 - 1878

This stereoscopic image, captured by Ernest Eléonor Pierre Lamy, presents the Column of Phocas amidst the ruins of Rome. The subdued tones of the albumen print emphasize a play of light and shadow, evoking a sense of melancholy and reflection. Lamy’s composition reveals a structured exploration of depth and perspective. The column, a strong vertical element, anchors the scene, while the surrounding ruins lead the eye into the distance, towards the architectural structures in the background. This arrangement invites us to consider the interplay between permanence and decay, order and chaos. The stereoscopic format enhances the three-dimensionality of the ruins, creating a vivid, almost tactile experience. This formal quality underscores the photograph’s semiotic function: it is not merely a record but an interpretation of history, inviting contemplation on the passage of time and the layers of meaning embedded within the Roman landscape.