Jérusalem, Vallée de Josaphat, Tombeau de St. Jacques 1854 - 1859

Auguste Salzmann's "Jérusalem, Vallée de Josaphat, Tombeau de St. Jacques" is a striking example of 19th-century photographic documentation of ancient sites. Taken between 1854 and 1859, the photograph captures the Tomb of Saint James, a crucial location for Christian pilgrims in Jerusalem. Salzmann's work captures the weathered stone and the architectural details of the tomb, showcasing the site's historical significance. The photograph's realistic portrayal of the tomb and its surroundings reflects the emerging artistic and scientific interests of the time in recording and analyzing historical sites. The image remains a powerful testament to the enduring power of photography to document history.