Twee afbeeldingen van standbeelden van een Ptolemeus en Thoetmosis III in het Boulaq Museum in Caïro, Egypte before 1871

This photograph by Hippolyte Délié shows two statues of Ptolemy and Thutmose III in the Boulaq Museum in Cairo. It gives us some insights into the cultural and institutional context of art in Egypt at the time. The Boulaq Museum, established in the mid-19th century, played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Egypt’s ancient artifacts, reflecting a growing national interest in its cultural heritage. Délié’s photograph captures not only the statues themselves but also the museum's role in shaping the reception of these historical figures. The statues, representing pharaohs from different eras, underscore the continuity and legacy of Egyptian rule. The photograph itself serves as a historical document, offering a glimpse into the way art and history were presented and understood in 19th-century Egypt. Historical archives are vital for better understanding the social forces influencing the production and appreciation of art.