Gezicht op Parijs en de Notre-Dame 1864 - 1880

This stereoscopic image presents a view of Paris and Notre-Dame, captured by Charles Dauvois. Without a specific date, it's challenging to pinpoint the exact historical context, but we can situate it within the broader development of photography. The decision to depict Paris, and Notre-Dame specifically, speaks volumes about cultural values and identity. Paris, as a center of culture and power, symbolized French identity. Notre-Dame, a gothic cathedral, was not just a religious site but a symbol of French heritage and resilience. What does it mean to capture this identity in a stereoscopic image, which creates a sense of depth and realism? Stereoscopic images like these were often consumed as novelties or as tools for experiencing distant places. Consider the privilege inherent in the ability to consume such images. Who had access to these technologies, and what did it mean to view the world through this lens? This image invites us to reflect on the intertwined histories of photography, representation, and cultural identity.