The Temple of Dendour, Nubia (Dendorack, Upper Egypt) 1840 - 1850

David Roberts made this watercolor drawing of The Temple of Dendour in Nubia, Upper Egypt. The image reflects British colonial interests in Egypt during the 19th century, particularly the fascination with and documentation of ancient monuments. Roberts, a Scottish painter known for his detailed architectural renderings, captures the temple's facade with precision. The inclusion of figures in orientalist dress, some of whom are measuring the temple, reinforces the narrative of European exploration and scientific inquiry. The temple itself, built during the Roman period, represents the layering of cultures and empires. Roberts's choice to depict it emphasizes Britain's own imperial ambitions in the region, connecting British civilization to the grandeur of the past. Understanding this work requires considering its historical context. Art historians often consult travel literature, colonial archives, and architectural surveys to understand the social and political dimensions of such images. We can then understand the meaning of this artwork as contingent on its social and institutional context.