Sculptures from the Outer Wall 1857

Francis Frith captured this photographic print of the Sculptures from the Outer Wall in the mid-19th century. Frith was one of the first British photographers to travel to the Middle East to document its landscapes and ancient monuments. This image invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in the act of representation. Frith, as a Western photographer, frames and captures ancient Egyptian sculptures, influencing how they are seen and understood by a Western audience. He emphasizes their aesthetic and historical value, arguably detaching them from their original cultural context. Notice how the sculptures depict figures in regal poses, possibly pharaohs or deities, surrounded by hieroglyphs. These carvings are not mere decorations; they embody the cultural, religious, and political beliefs of ancient Egypt. The act of photographing them raises questions about cultural appropriation and the politics of looking. It also serves as a poignant reminder of our connection to a distant past, prompting reflection on the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.