Exterieur van de Sint-Sebalduskerk in Neurenberg, Duitsland 1868 - 1900

Editor: Here we have Johann Friedrich Stiehm’s "Exterieur van de Sint-Sebalduskerk in Neurenberg, Duitsland," a gelatin-silver print dating from somewhere between 1868 and 1900. It strikes me as a very formal, almost staged shot. What do you see in this piece, in terms of its historical context? Curator: I'm immediately struck by the image's role in constructing and disseminating a particular view of German identity after the formation of the German Empire. Consider that this photograph was likely mass-produced as part of a series, as we see text printed on the image, thus making this photographic print accessible to a broad audience. The careful composition of the church's exterior projects a sense of national pride and cultural heritage, don’t you think? Editor: That’s interesting. So the focus on the church isn't just aesthetic; it's also about establishing a certain narrative about Germany's past. Does the architectural style itself contribute to this narrative? Curator: Absolutely. The Sint-Sebalduskerk, with its Romanesque and Gothic elements, embodies centuries of German history. By highlighting it, Stiehm subtly aligns the newly unified nation with a powerful and enduring legacy. This can be viewed as a conscious effort to create a shared cultural memory. And how might this photograph function within the socio-political landscape of the time, with the rise of national sentiment? Editor: Right. It's not just a photograph, it’s a carefully crafted piece of propaganda, promoting the German state! Seeing it this way really adds depth. Curator: Precisely! Photography like this shaped perceptions of nationhood and belonging, playing a vital role in the visual culture of its time. Editor: It's fascinating to see how this photograph functions as a historical and political artifact. Thanks!