Gezicht op de tempel van Isis en Serapis before 1862

This photograph of the Temple of Isis and Serapis was made by Francis Frith, a leading British photographer, as part of his ambitious project to document the landscapes and monuments of the Middle East during the mid-19th century. Frith's work is more than just a record; it reflects the complex dynamics of colonialism and cultural exchange. Photography at this time was not just a tool for documentation, but also a means of asserting Western dominance and shaping perceptions of the "Orient." Frith's images were widely circulated in Europe, feeding a growing fascination with ancient civilizations. By studying Frith's photographs alongside travelogues, colonial records, and anthropological studies, we can begin to understand the intricate web of power, knowledge, and representation that shaped the modern world. The social conditions that shaped artistic production back then have been long forgotten, thus art historical approach helps to uncover the hidden narratives embedded within these images.