Egypt 1904 (January 2nd) 1904

Editor: This is "Egypt 1904 (January 2nd)"– a small, dark red leather-bound book. What strikes me is how intimate and personal this object feels. How do we understand this within the larger context of art history and cultural exchange? Curator: Consider the politics of tourism at the turn of the century. Egypt was a popular destination for Western travelers, often depicted through a colonial lens. Did this book serve as a personal memento, or might it have been intended for a wider audience? Editor: That's a good point. It makes me think about the power dynamics inherent in who gets to represent a place and its history. Curator: Precisely. Examining the book’s contents – photographs, sketches, diary entries – would reveal more about its intended use and its role in shaping perceptions of Egypt. Considering its display in the Harvard Art Museums today, how does its meaning continue to evolve? Editor: That gives me a lot to consider. Thanks for sharing your perspective!