Boom van Maria, El Matareya 1888 - 1895

Jean Pascal Sébah created this photograph of the 'Tree of Mary, El Matareya', using a sepia-toned print, mounted on cardboard. The composition is dominated by the sprawling branches and dense foliage of the ancient tree, filling the frame with its organic form. The tree's massive trunk, partially enclosed by a wooden fence, serves as a focal point. A structural analysis reveals how Sébah uses the tree as a central signifier, perhaps of life, refuge, or historical continuity. Two figures stand to the side, their presence grounding the photograph and providing a sense of scale, which emphasizes the tree's grandeur. The sepia tone adds a layer of nostalgia, imbuing the image with a sense of timelessness. The textured details of the bark and leaves invite closer inspection, while the soft lighting enhances the tree's volume. This photograph not only captures a specific location but also engages with broader themes of nature, culture, and representation.