Temple d'Ombos, Haute-Egypte Possibly 1849 - 1852

This photograph, "Temple d'Ombos, Haute-Egypte" by Maxime Du Camp, depicts the ruins of a temple in Upper Egypt. Taken during Du Camp's travels in the 1850s, the image showcases the crumbling grandeur of the ancient structure. The stark black and white tones enhance the sense of time and decay, highlighting the intricate carvings and weathered columns. Du Camp's work, often displayed in albums, documented the Egyptian landscape and its monuments for a European audience, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. This photograph, now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection, is a testament to the enduring power of historical photography and the allure of ancient civilizations.