Artwork

Thèbes. Palais de Karnak. Sculptures exterieures du Sanctuaire de granit

Thèbes. Palais de Karnak. Sculptures exterieures du Sanctuaire de granit is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Maxime Du Camp. It dates from 1852 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This faded black-and-white photograph, taken by Maxime Du Camp in 1852, is part of a series documenting ancient Egyptian monuments. The print is worn and torn, with visible text but no discernible image.

Subject & Meaning

The text on the print indicates that it was intended to depict exterior sculptures at the Sanctuary of Granite within the Karnak complex in Thebes.

Technique & Style

Originally part of a subscription series of 125 photographs, this print was accompanied by a protective tissue overleaf with letterpress printing. The series was published in 25 installments, each containing five plates.

History & Provenance

This photograph is one of 24 surviving examples from the original set. The Victoria and Albert Museum holds related documentation of the Karnak complex.

Context

The photograph was published by Gide et J. Baudry as part of a larger effort to document ancient Egyptian architecture and art.