Ruine sulla terza terazza, Persepolis 1858

Luigi Pesce created this photograph, Ruine sulla terza terazza, Persepolis, capturing the ancient ruins of Persepolis. This image uses the techniques of photography, a relatively new medium in the 19th century, to document and represent historical sites. The photograph's sepia tone emphasizes the age and weathered texture of the stone ruins. Consider the labor involved in constructing Persepolis, from quarrying and transporting massive stones to the skilled carving of intricate reliefs. Photography provides a way to disseminate these images widely, influencing public perceptions and appreciation of ancient cultures, while the photographer also relies on the labor of those who built the site. Pesce’s work invites us to reflect on the relationship between ancient craftsmanship and modern technology, challenging traditional distinctions between art and documentation. Both involve human skill, material transformation, and the imprint of time.