Gezicht op de Taj Mahal in Agra before 1871

Samuel Bourne, a prominent British photographer, captured the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra in this striking photograph taken before 1871. The image showcases the architectural grandeur of the mausoleum, with its intricate details and symmetrical design framed by a central pathway lined with cypress trees. The photograph's use of a long-shot perspective emphasizes the monument's vastness and timeless beauty. Bourne's work, known for its technical precision and artistic sensibility, provided Western audiences with a glimpse into the wonders of India. This photograph, with its historical and cultural significance, continues to inspire awe and fascination in viewers today.