Exterieur van de Heilig Grafkerk, Jeruzalem c. 1867 - 1877

This photograph, taken by Félix Bonfils, presents the exterior of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The composition is dominated by the church’s imposing stone facade. The monochromatic palette emphasizes the rough textures and monumental scale of the architecture, evoking a sense of timelessness and solemnity. Bonfils’ choice to capture the church from a frontal perspective underscores the symmetry and geometric patterns inherent in the structure. The arches and the dome above create a visual rhythm. This structural emphasis invites us to consider the interplay between form and function, between the physical reality of the church and its symbolic importance. The photograph not only documents a historical site but also engages with broader questions about representation, belief, and the human relationship to the sacred. Through Bonfils's lens, the church becomes a study in architectural form, prompting us to consider how these forms shape our understanding.