Tempel te Semna before 1862

This is a photograph of the Temple of Semna, taken by Francis Frith. In the 19th century, photographers like Frith played a crucial role in shaping Western perceptions of non-Western cultures. This image, part of a larger project documenting Egypt and the Middle East, reflects the Victorian era's fascination with ancient civilizations. The gaze of the colonizer, in this case Frith, frames the ruins, evoking a sense of the past but also, perhaps unintentionally, reflecting the power dynamics between the West and the regions it surveys. Consider, also, how Frith’s work served both artistic and commercial purposes, catering to a growing market for exotic imagery. It brings up questions about the ownership and representation of cultural heritage, especially for those whose stories have been historically marginalized. How does seeing this image today, with a more critical understanding of its historical context, affect your interpretation?