Oude wallen van Salad'hin (Kaïro) 1920

Philip Zilcken created this etching, "Old Walls of Saladin (Cairo)," at the turn of the 20th century. It depicts the ancient fortifications, remnants of a once-mighty defensive structure, now softened by time and the elements. Zilcken, a Dutch artist, likely encountered this site during his travels. Consider the era: European artists often journeyed to the Middle East, seeking inspiration in what they perceived as exotic lands. This interest was fueled by colonial narratives and a fascination with the "Orient." The etching process itself, with its delicate lines and tonal range, lends a sense of historical distance. We can delve deeper by examining travelogues, architectural surveys, and even early photographs of Cairo from this period. These resources can reveal how Zilcken's work fits into a broader cultural phenomenon, one where the past is interpreted – and perhaps romanticized – through the lens of the present. This etching is not just a depiction of a place; it's a product of a specific moment in cultural history.