View of the Eindawya Pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar 1887 - 1899

This photograph of the Eindawya Pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar, was taken by Felice Beato. Notice how the conical form of the pagoda dominates the composition. The layered tiers create a rhythm that draws the eye upward toward the spire. Beato's use of light and shadow models the architectural forms. This technique emphasizes the pagoda’s three-dimensional presence. This creates a sense of depth and monumental scale. The tonal range in the sepia tones reflects the texture of the building materials, contrasting the smooth surfaces of the stupa with the rougher textures of the surrounding structures. The lone figure on the right grounds the photograph with a human element. It offers a sense of scale that enhances the pagoda's grandeur. Beato carefully frames the pagoda. He uses both geometric precision and cultural insight to capture the essence of this sacred site. It’s a visual document and a work of art, intertwining the architectural and the spiritual.