Rock temple at Polonnaruwa 1896

This photograph of the Rock Temple at Polonnaruwa was created by Henry William Cave, likely in the late 19th century, using photographic paper and traditional darkroom processes. Cave's photograph captures the rough textures and forms of the temple. The inherent qualities of the stone are emphasized by the play of light and shadow, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in carving this structure directly into the landscape. The temple would have taken an immense amount of physical labor. Cave was interested in the artistry involved in creating such a structure, as well as the cultural and religious significance it would have held within the community. The photograph allows us to appreciate both the skill of the craftsmen and the spiritual context in which their work was created. It bridges the gap between fine art and craft, inviting us to consider how the act of making shapes our understanding of history and culture.