Interieur van de bovenkapel in de Sainte-Chapelle te Parijs 1870 - 1904

Editor: We’re looking at an early photograph, a gelatin silver print from between 1870 and 1904, titled *Interieur van de bovenkapel in de Sainte-Chapelle te Parijs*— Interior of the upper chapel in the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. Edouard Hautecoer is the artist. I'm immediately struck by the contrast: such ethereal beauty rendered in the very grounded medium of early photography. What secrets do you think this image holds? Curator: It's interesting you pick up on that tension. For me, it's precisely there where its magic lies! Hautecoer captures not just the architecture, but the very air within. Look at how the light struggles to conquer the darkness within this gothic wonder. He is not trying to merely document this space, but perhaps reveal what it feels like to be embraced by something ancient and awe-inspiring. Do you sense the palpable quiet? It's a photographic poem, isn't it? Editor: A poem…I like that! I guess I was so focused on the details, I missed the overall feeling. I was busy noticing the incredible stained glass. Curator: Ah, the stained glass, the soul of Sainte-Chapelle! They say it's like standing inside a jewel box. The way the light fractures, creating a kaleidoscope of colors… sadly we don’t have that luxury in this medium. Instead, Hautecoer challenges us to see the geometry, the bones of the sacred space. What emotions do those sharp lines and soaring arches evoke in you? Editor: Now that you mention it, there is a sense of… upward striving? But also, maybe a little melancholy? Knowing how many hands and how much time went into this...it's almost overwhelming. Curator: Precisely! That tension, that melancholy mixed with aspiration… it speaks to the heart of the gothic spirit. Hautecoer’s capture reminds us that beauty is often born from the most profound human efforts and aspirations. This dialogue is as old as art itself. I'm thrilled you felt it. Editor: Absolutely, it's almost a visual meditation! I will never look at early photography the same way.