Jérusalem, Enceinte du Temple, Porte hérodienne 1854 - 1859

This is Auguste Salzmann's photograph, "Jerusalem, Enceinte du Temple, Porte hérodienne," capturing a section of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Salzmann, a French archaeologist and photographer, made it as part of a broader project to document the Holy Land. During the mid-19th century, European interest in the Middle East intensified, driven by colonial ambitions, religious fervor, and scientific curiosity. Photography played a crucial role in shaping Western perceptions of the region. Salzmann, like many of his contemporaries, sought to provide an objective record of historical sites. However, his photographs are far from neutral. They reflect the politics of representation inherent in colonial projects. By focusing on ancient ruins, Salzmann's images contribute to a narrative that emphasizes the historical significance of the land while subtly erasing the contemporary presence and identities of its inhabitants. He creates a visual archive that aligns with European interests and biases, framing the Middle East through a Western lens. The photograph serves as both documentation and interpretation, deeply embedded in the complex dynamics of power and representation.