E.M. Wissman en H.A. Romswinkel voor grote pyramide en sfinx te Gizeh, 30 Dec 1900 Possibly 1900 - 1930

This photograph, taken on December 30th, 1900 by an anonymous photographer, captures E.M. Wissman and H.A. Romswinkel in front of the pyramids and the Sphinx at Gizeh. The turn of the century saw a surge in European interest in Egypt, fueled by colonial ambitions and a romantic fascination with its ancient past. This image, with its formal composition and sepia tones, reflects the era's approach to documenting and possessing foreign lands. Yet, it also hints at the complex power dynamics at play. The inclusion of a local guide, positioned on the edge of the group, raises questions about representation, agency, and the gaze of the colonizer. What is his experience in this tableau? While seemingly a straightforward travel snapshot, this photograph serves as a reminder of the intricate layers of history, identity, and power embedded in the act of seeing and being seen. It invites us to consider the narratives we construct when encountering unfamiliar cultures and histories.