Fotoreproductie van het schilderij Binnenplaats van een huis te Caïro door Willem de Famars Testas c. 1881s - 1891s

This is an anonymous photograph of Willem de Famars Testas' painting, "Courtyard of a House in Cairo." The photograph provides a glimpse into the historical and cultural context of 19th-century Cairo, as seen through the eyes of a Dutch artist. During this period, European artists often depicted scenes from the Middle East, reflecting a Western fascination with what was perceived as the "Orient." This artistic trend was influenced by broader colonial dynamics, which shaped how Westerners viewed and represented non-Western cultures. Here, we might consider the gaze through which this courtyard is presented and question whose narrative is prioritized. The photograph prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in such representations, and the identities and histories of those depicted. What stories might the women seated on the steps tell? Ultimately, this photograph invites us to consider the complex interplay of art, representation, and cultural exchange. It challenges us to reflect on the historical context, while acknowledging the personal dimensions of those whose lives are captured in this still moment.