Interieur van de Ibn Toeloenmoskee te Caïro c. 1875 - 1900

This photograph titled, "Interieur van de Ibn Toeloenmoskee te Caïro," shows the interior of the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Cairo; it was created by an anonymous artist. Captured through a Western lens, this image presents the mosque as a space of architectural grandeur, yet it also reflects the complex relationship between the West and the Islamic world during the colonial era. Consider how the photographer chose to frame this shot. The long corridor and the play of light and shadow emphasize the mosque's physical structure while perhaps overlooking its spiritual and communal significance. How might the experience of those who worship and find community here differ from the visual narrative presented? Does the photograph perpetuate a sense of the mosque as an exotic "other," or does it offer a respectful glimpse into a rich cultural heritage? Think about the stories and histories held within these walls, beyond what the photograph reveals.