Aeroscopics: Media of the Bird's-Eye View

In 1900, Paris had no skyscrapers, tourist helicopters, or drones, but people could still enjoy aerial views from observation rides, paintings, or miniature model cities. Patrick Ellis' book "Aeroscopics" explores the forgotten media of the Balloon Era and after, offering new possibilities for the history of aerial vision.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2021
Publisher: University of California Press

In the early 1900s, Paris was a city devoid of towering skyscrapers, tourist helicopters, and drones. However, even before aviation made aerial views more accessible, those seeking such vantages had a multitude of options available to them. They could enjoy the breathtaking panorama from an observation ride, marvel at a painting depicting the view from Notre-Dame, or even observe a miniature model city.

Aeroscopics, written by Patrick Ellis, is a captivating history of the view from above, presented from a unique perspective. This interdisciplinary study, extensively illustrated with rich visuals, draws upon extensive archival research to uncover the forgotten media of the Balloon Era and beyond. By resurrecting these neglected spectacles as "aeroscopics," Ellis opens up new avenues for exploring the history of aerial vision.

During the Balloon Era, from the late 18th century to the early 19th century, hot-air balloons became a popular means of transportation and recreation. They soared high above the city, offering passengers a breathtaking aerial perspective. As the technology advanced, balloonists began to experiment with capturing aerial images, using cameras and other equipment to document the landscape below.

One of the most significant examples of aeroscopics is the work of French photographer Gaspard-Félix Tournachon, who took numerous photographs of Paris from his balloon in the 1850s. Tournachon's images, which were published in popular magazines and newspapers, captured the city's architecture, streets, and people in a way that had never been seen before.

However, aeroscopics were not limited to the Balloon Era. Even after the advent of aviation, there were still opportunities for people to enjoy aerial views of Paris. Observation towers, such as the Eiffel Tower, were built to offer visitors panoramic vistas of the city. And in the early 20th century, aerial photography became a popular pastime, with photographers using planes and helicopters to capture stunning images of Paris from above.

In addition to these visual media, there were also written accounts of aerial views of Paris. Authors such as Charles Baudelaire and Gustave Flaubert wrote extensively about the city's landscape and architecture, using their words to describe the beauty and grandeur of the city from a bird's-eye perspective.

Aeroscopics, therefore, offer a rich and diverse history of the view from above. They remind us of the ways in which people have sought to capture and appreciate the beauty of the world from a unique vantage point, and they provide a valuable insight into the evolution of aerial vision. Whether through observation rides, paintings, photographs, or written accounts, aeroscopics have played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, the history of aeroscopics is a fascinating and overlooked aspect of visual culture. By resurrecting these neglected spectacles as "aeroscopics," Patrick Ellis opens up new possibilities for exploring the history of aerial vision. Through extensive archival work and rich illustrations, Ellis provides a comprehensive account of the forgotten media available to the public in the Balloon Era and beyond. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys a breathtaking view, aeroscopics offer a unique and captivating perspective on the world we live in.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520355491