Views of FA-Khasne, Petra 

David Roberts created this watercolor painting of FA-Khasne, Petra, during his travels in the Middle East. This imposing facade, carved directly into the sandstone cliff, blends Hellenistic architectural features with local traditions. Created in the 19th century, during a period of intense European Orientalism, this artwork prompts us to consider the politics of imagery. The artist presents a romanticized view of the 'Orient', framing it as exotic and timeless. What social conditions allowed for such a representation? What role did institutions like the Royal Asiatic Society play in shaping Western perceptions of the Middle East? Roberts’ work, while celebrated for its detailed rendering, participates in a broader colonial project. Historians interested in the public role of art can delve into travelogues, colonial records, and the artist's personal correspondence. By examining the image within its social and institutional contexts, we can better understand its complex meanings.