Djîzeh (Nécropole de Memphis), Pyramide de Chéops (Grande Pyramide) 1851 - 1852

Félix Teynard created this photograph of the Pyramid of Cheops using a calotype process. Taken during an 1851-52 expedition, it reflects not only an interest in ancient monuments but also the burgeoning field of Egyptology and the colonial gaze of 19th-century Europe. Teynard’s photograph participates in a long history of Western fascination with Egypt, often overshadowing the lived experiences and perspectives of Egyptians themselves. The grandeur of the pyramid, rendered in sepia tones, evokes a sense of timelessness, yet it’s important to consider the complex social dynamics at play. The construction of the pyramids involved the labor of countless individuals, whose stories are often marginalized in favor of narratives of pharaohs and dynasties. Consider how the photograph frames our understanding of history. Does it invite curiosity about the people and cultures that created this monument, or does it perpetuate a sense of distance? Let's reflect on how we can approach historical sites and images with a more nuanced and respectful understanding.