Collectieve brouwerij bij Blechhütte aan de Bode, inmiddels deel van Thale 1868 - 1890

Editor: So this stereo print captures the Collective Brewery at Blechhütte near the Bode, which is now part of Thale, Germany. It's attributed to Hermann Selle and was created sometime between 1868 and 1890. There's a real sense of stillness about it, despite it depicting a presumably active brewery. I'm curious, what stands out to you in this image? Curator: The tranquility you noted is rather compelling. Selle has this knack for finding beauty in industry, wouldn't you agree? He frames the brewery, smoke stack and all, as a sort of extension of the natural landscape, almost melting into the trees and water. I feel like I'm getting a history lesson and nature walk, all in one viewing. Tell me, does the repetition of the structure in the stereo format give you any thoughts? Editor: It's almost like seeing the building from slightly different perspectives simultaneously. Maybe emphasizing the scale and solid permanence of the brewery in the landscape. I am really interested in the social dynamic, imagining those working and living in that industrialized setting. Curator: Yes! And don't forget, these stereo views were popular for home entertainment. Imagine families gathered around, transported to a faraway brewery. Perhaps with a beer brewed in a brewery just like the one in this very image? History in a frame, if you will. What has sparked most from the piece? Editor: The seamless way it blends industry with nature, I did not anticipate feeling this at the start. And, yes, just thinking about that social interaction is powerful too. Curator: Exactly. It is those surprising dialogues and connection with history and with self that makes art such a fantastic playground, don't you think?