Tombe van Seti I (KV17) in de Vallei der Koningen, Thebe (Luxor) c. 1870 - 1890

Editor: This photograph, taken by C. & G. Zangaki around 1870-1890, shows a section of the Tomb of Seti I in the Valley of the Kings. It’s a gelatin-silver print. I find it fascinating how photography was used to document these ancient sites. What stands out to you about it? Curator: What I see are the layers of production at play. Consider the materials involved. We have stone, meticulously carved and painted centuries ago; then we have the photographic process itself, the gelatin and silver meticulously manipulated to capture and render that stone. Editor: So you are focusing on how the image was created rather than what is depicted. Curator: Exactly. And let's not forget the socio-economic context. Who commissioned this photograph? Who was meant to view it? How does the act of photographing and circulating this image impact our understanding of labor in both ancient Egypt, the labour of slaves who constructed this burial complex, and in the Egypt of Zangaki brothers, presumably using paid workers in the photographic studios of their time? Editor: That’s a perspective I hadn't considered. I was focusing on the historical significance, but you're right, understanding the production process and the economic forces is critical. Curator: Precisely. How does the consumption of this image tie into the narrative and cultural dominance by western Europe in the mid-19th century? Editor: I see your point. It prompts a broader understanding of not just what's represented, but the network of material processes that facilitate this representation, highlighting labor dynamics, cultural and technological advancements. Curator: Indeed, it makes us question who truly owns this tomb. Editor: Food for thought. Thanks.