Santa Maria dei Miracoli in Brescia c. 1870 - 1885

Giacomo Rossetti captured this photograph of Santa Maria dei Miracoli in Brescia sometime between 1807 and 1882. During Rossetti's time, photography was emerging as a powerful medium, capable of documenting architectural wonders with unprecedented detail. Rossetti’s photograph presents us with an impeccably ornamented facade, but also raises questions about the ways in which religious institutions often reflect and reinforce societal power structures. The building itself could be seen as an expression of cultural identity and faith, but also as a statement of dominance and control. The image prompts reflection on the relationships between religious institutions, artistic expression, and societal values. Consider how the photograph invites us to reflect on the ways in which cultural landmarks shape our understanding of identity and history, and how they contribute to the ongoing dialogue between tradition and change.