Fontein met Mozaïek te Pompeï c. 1865

This image is a photograph of the Fontein met Mozaïek, taken in Pompeii by Photographie Artistique. The stereoscopic format, with its subtle duplication, invites us to explore the interplay between surface and depth, reality and representation. Notice how the fountain is structured through geometric shapes: the rectangle of the basin, the arch of the alcove, and the triangle of the roof. The mosaic patterns, rendered in grayscale, create a complex texture that contrasts with the smooth surfaces of the stone. The photograph's composition is symmetrical, with the fountain centered, emphasizing its monumental presence. The photograph isn't just a document; it's an interpretation. The photographer has framed the fountain in a way that highlights its formal qualities, inviting us to consider the relationship between ancient Roman design and nineteenth-century photographic techniques. It raises questions about how we perceive and preserve historical artifacts through the lens of art and technology.