Gezicht op de tombe van Alauddin Khalji in het Qutb Minarcomplex in Delhi before 1885

This is an undated photograph of the tomb of Alauddin Khalji, located in the Qutb Minar complex in Delhi, and made by an anonymous photographer. The image captures the architectural details of the tomb, showcasing its intricate carvings and design. Considered in the historical context of British colonialism in India, photographs like this one served multiple purposes. On one hand, they documented historical sites and architectural marvels, contributing to a growing body of knowledge about India's past. On the other hand, such images also played a role in shaping colonial narratives and power dynamics, as the act of photographing and documenting a culture can be a form of appropriation and control. The image may evoke a sense of wonder at the beauty of the tomb, but it also invites reflection on the complex layers of history, power, and representation embedded within it.