Palais de Karnak, Pilier Devant le Sanctuaire de Granit; Thèbes Possibly 1849 - 1852

This 19th-century photograph by Maxime Du Camp captures a pillar from the Karnak Temple in Thebes, Egypt. Du Camp was a photographer and writer who documented his travels through the Middle East in the mid-19th century. His work, often in the form of photo albums, brought the ancient world to a wider audience. This photo, part of a series on the Egyptian monuments, focuses on a single element within the expansive complex, showcasing the intricate hieroglyphics and bas-reliefs that adorn its surface. This image, now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and the artistic mastery of its builders.