[RAYY, Tower of Toghrul, 1139.] 1840 - 1869

Luigi Pesce captured this albumen silver print of the Tower of Toghrul in Rayy, Persia, during the 19th century. The image presents us with a stark and detailed view of the ancient tower, a monument dating back to 1139. Pesce's photograph not only documents the architecture but also offers a glimpse into the cultural and historical context of Persia at a time when Western interest in the region was growing. The choice of photography as a medium is significant here. Photography provided a seemingly objective way to document distant lands and cultures. The image embodies a colonial gaze. It transforms the tower into an object of study and fascination for a Western audience. To truly understand this image, we need to delve into the archives, examining travelogues, ethnographic studies, and the history of photography itself. Only then can we appreciate the complex interplay between art, culture, and the social forces that shape our understanding of the world.