Gezicht op het Paleis van Justitie te Parijs c. 1850 - 1875

The London Stereoscopic Company created this stereoscopic image of the Palais de Justice in Paris. The image offers a glimpse into 19th-century Paris, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval, including the rise of industrialization and shifting class structures. What is striking about this image is how it situates the Palais de Justice, a symbol of law and order, within the everyday life of the city. On the banks of the river, we see ordinary people going about their business. These details invite us to consider the relationship between justice and society, asking: Who has access to justice, and who is excluded? What does justice look like for different classes, genders, and races? The grand architecture and the ordinary citizens create an intriguing tension. Through its composition, the photograph prompts reflections on how power and everyday life intersect. The image serves as a reminder that justice is not an abstract concept, but is instead woven into the fabric of daily existence.