Patio de los Arrayanes, Alhambra, Granada, Spain 1854

Alphonse Delaunay's 1854 photograph "Patio de los Arrayanes, Alhambra, Granada, Spain" captures the serene beauty of the Moorish palace's courtyard. The image showcases the intricate details of the architectural arches, the reflection of the sky in the water, and the overall tranquility of the space. This work, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, exemplifies the artistic potential of early photography to document and highlight the architectural wonders of the world. The photograph's focus on the central courtyard's symmetry and the detailed portrayal of the arches create a sense of timeless elegance.