Interieur van een zijbeuk van de Kathedraal van Exeter c. 1850 - 1880

Francis Bedford made this stereoscopic photograph of the Exeter Cathedral's interior in the mid-19th century. Bedford capitalizes on the stereoscope's illusion of depth to emphasize the cathedral's cavernous interior. This photograph was made in a time of increased industrialization and urbanization in England. The Gothic style of architecture experienced a revival with architects like Pugin arguing for its superiority because of its Christian associations. Cathedrals were seen as a connection to a more spiritual past and the photograph reflects this. Bedford made many photographs of English cathedrals, and these would have appealed to Victorian sensibilities concerning religion, history, and national identity. Further research into 19th-century architectural photography, the Gothic Revival, and the social history of Victorian England would reveal more about this work. By understanding the contexts in which art is created, we are better able to appreciate it.