Tower of St. Maclou, Mantes before 1865

This photograph of the Tower of St. Maclou in Mantes, France was made by Joseph Cundall in the mid-19th century. Photography at this time was gaining momentum in both commercial and artistic fields. The image is interesting to consider in terms of the relationship between photography and architectural preservation. Here we see a medieval structure, built in 1344, captured with then cutting-edge technology. Photography offered new ways to document and study historical buildings. This tower, according to the text beside the image, may 'serve the purpose of comparison with the west front of the cathedral.' The photograph is not just a neutral record, it is actively put to work in the service of historical understanding. It shows the early institutionalization of photography and its role within the study of art history and architecture. To understand photography's role in shaping our view of the world, we must consider the social and cultural forces that directed its development and use.