Gezicht op de graftombe van Cansignorio della Scala, onderdeel van de Arche Scaligere, Verona 1872 - 1876

This is a stereocard photograph by Jean Andrieu, capturing the tomb of Cansignorio della Scala in Verona. This image gives us a glimpse into the visual culture of the 19th century, when travel and tourism were increasingly shaped by photographic documentation. Andrieu’s choice to photograph this elaborate Gothic tomb reflects a broader interest in historical grandeur and the allure of Italian heritage. The stereocard format itself encourages a kind of virtual tourism, allowing viewers to experience a sense of depth and presence. Yet, it also frames the tomb as a spectacle, transforming a site of mourning and memory into a commodity for consumption. Consider the gaze through which Andrieu presents this monument. What stories are told, and whose perspectives are prioritized? The image invites us to contemplate the intersections of history, representation, and the commodification of cultural heritage. It reminds us to reflect on how we engage with historical sites and the narratives they embody.