Boog van Titus te Rome c. 1856 - 1857

This photograph, “Boog van Titus te Rome,” captures the Roman Arch of Titus, although the artist remains anonymous. The stereoscopic view, popular in the 19th century, presents us with a doubling effect, emphasizing depth and architectural form through a nuanced interplay of light and shadow. The arch itself dominates the composition. Its solidity is juxtaposed against the void of the archway. The stone's texture, worn by time, provides a visual counterpoint to the precise geometry of its construction. The photographer uses perspective to draw our eyes upwards, accentuating its height and grandeur. Note how the composition is split into two halves, with figures positioned at the base of the arch. This arrangement invites us to consider not only the monument’s historical significance, but also its present-day context. The photograph functions as a cultural sign, linking ancient Rome with the modern era. This visual dialogue challenges fixed notions of time, inviting viewers to interpret and reinterpret the arch's meaning across centuries.