Hagia Irene en Hagia Sophia te Istanboel 1861 - 1870

This stereo card, presenting the Hagia Irene and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, was made by Charles Gaudin, a photographer working in Paris. The photographic process, though now commonplace, was a relatively new technology at the time, relying on chemical processes to capture and reproduce images. Notice how the sepia tones create a sense of antiquity, imbuing the scene with a historical weight. The stereoscopic format gives the image depth, making the architectural details more pronounced. It’s important to remember that photography, even in its early days, was never a purely objective medium. The photographer chose the angle, the lighting, and what to include in the frame. This photograph not only documents these iconic structures but also reflects the colonial gaze prevalent during that era, framing the East for Western consumption. By considering the materials, techniques, and context of its production, we gain a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.