Deel van de tempel van Ramses III te Medinet Haboe c. 1875 - 1900

Editor: This photograph, "Part of the Temple of Ramses III at Medinet Habu," was taken sometime between 1875 and 1900. It's a gelatin silver print, attributed to an anonymous photographer, showing a section of the ancient temple ruins. It evokes a feeling of vastness, but also the slow relentless effects of time on the stones. What visual elements stand out to you? Curator: The most striking aspect, formalistically speaking, is the interplay of light and shadow across the surfaces of the architecture. The photographer has expertly captured the gradations of tone, lending depth and texture to the ruins. Note the geometrical emphasis: the solid, almost cubic forms of the structures are dramatically juxtaposed with the less defined areas of rubble. Editor: The forms almost look stacked on each other, right? The darker blocks forming these angular masses draw my eye and makes it a very stark scene. What is this contrast achieving here? Curator: Precisely! Observe also how the photographer has structured the composition; this emphasizes geometric and contrasting elements. By positioning the horizon line relatively high, more prominence is given to the temple complex itself. The artist guides our focus. This visual tension pulls our focus. Are you finding this work pleasing, overall? Editor: It is thought-provoking to be sure. It certainly offers an aesthetic experience that is rooted in the materiality of what the artist chooses to depict. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Remember: when art is examined so directly it is appreciated on new, purely aesthetic dimensions.