Tersâne-i Âmire haven in Istanboel 1861 - 1870

This albumen print shows the Tersâne-i Âmire haven in Istanbul, and was produced by Charles Gaudin. In this stereoscopic image, the use of depth and perspective creates a captivating visual experience. The foreground is dominated by a low stone wall and a small, elevated structure, possibly a guardhouse. Its presence is strongly geometric with firm verticals, horizontals and a strong angular roofline. These structural elements frame the vista beyond, drawing the eye toward the body of water and the distant skyline of Istanbul. The composition is divided into distinct horizontal layers, each contributing to the overall sense of depth. The sepia tones enhance the image's textural details and architectural details, while creating a sense of timelessness. This artwork uses a semiotic system, where the arrangement of objects and spaces can be read as cultural codes, revealing details about the social and political context of the time.