Propylon du Temple de Dandour (Tropique du Cancer) 1850

This 1850 photograph, "Propylon du Temple de Dandour (Tropique du Cancer)," by Maxime Du Camp captures the architectural grandeur of an ancient Egyptian temple gateway. The image showcases the propylon, a monumental entrance structure, with its imposing scale and intricate details. The photograph's sharp clarity and composition highlight the temple's weathered stonework and the contrasting light filtering through the archway. Du Camp's photographic documentation of ancient sites like Dandour played a crucial role in the development of archaeological photography, making the past accessible to a wider audience. This photograph, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Egyptian architecture.