The Temple at Dendur, Nubia 1848

David Roberts created this watercolor titled 'The Temple at Dendur, Nubia'. Roberts used paper and watercolor in a way that reflects the romantic vision of the era. The technique allows for the creation of atmospheric effects and a soft, diffused light, imbuing the ancient architecture with a sense of timelessness and mystery. Consider how Roberts was engaging with a wider cultural fascination with antiquity. He wasn't merely documenting a scene, but also participating in the era's orientalism, an interest that fueled archeological expeditions and the acquisition of ancient artifacts by European museums. The labor and resources required for such expeditions, and the movement of artifacts, speak to broader issues of colonialism and cultural appropriation. This work, through its materials and composition, invites us to reflect on the relationship between art, history, and power.