Dom van Aken, Duitsland 1864

This stereoscopic photograph of Dom van Aken, Germany was taken by Hippolyte Jouvin in the mid-19th century. Jouvin, a French photographer, was a key figure in the development of stereoscopic photography, which offered viewers a three-dimensional experience. As we delve into this image, remember the cultural and social context of the time. Jouvin lived in a society deeply invested in progress and documentation; photography was not just an art form but a tool for exploration and preservation. He frames the Dom van Aken, a cathedral rich with historical and religious significance, amidst an urban landscape. The choice of a stereoscopic view heightens the cathedral’s grandeur, but it also invites a deeper reflection on space and perception. How does the three-dimensionality alter your experience of the scene? Consider how Jouvin uses this new technology to document and shape perceptions of cultural landmarks.