A Look Through a Stereoscope from 1889 | World's Fair Innovations, Photo of "Apollo On His Chariot" from the Gardens of Versailles in Paris, France

A look through a stereoscope from 1889 }} ‘Apollo On His Chariot’ a 17th century French masterpiece sculpture. It was one of the first major commissions for the gardens of Versailles by King Louis XIV.

It is an allegory of the solar cycle, depicting Apollo emerging from the sea at dawn to illuminate the world on his chariot surrounded by Tritons (sea gods) and nymphs.

This sculpture is set within an oval basin that reflects the sky to emphasize the mythological legend of the sun god’s connection to the heavens and the sun.

I’ve studied Egyptian mythology and there is a similar story with Ra, the sun god, who crosses the night sky in a solar barque (boat), battling the underworld to bring back light to world each day, symbolizing the eternal cycle of rebirth. I find it fascinating when ancient mythologies intersect in storytelling.

In 1889, a stereoscope was a device used to view two slightly different photographs of the same scene—one for each eye—to create a single, 3D image, transporting viewers to other places. This was an immersive experience (of the time), especially when travel was difficult.

The magical optical effects of stereoscopic photographs paved the way for cinema, or moving pictures, which was introduced by the Lumière brothers’ in 1895.

This particular stereoscope was used at the ‘World’s Fair’ in 1889 in Paris. These fairs were held in various cities across the world and showcased global innovations, which were symbols of modern progress. It brought together cultures, inventions, goods, and ideas that helped shape the future.

History, art, mythology, technology — what’s not to love? 😎

(I saw this piece at the Soumaya museum in Mexico City) 🇲🇽♥️