Artwork
The Bridge of Boats and Fort from Khairabad
The Bridge of Boats and Fort from Khairabad is a photography by the Impressionist artist John Burke. It dates from 1879 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
This photograph, 'The Bridge of Boats and Fort from Khairabad', is a documentation of a scene from the Second Anglo-Afghan War. It is one of many images taken by John Burke, a pioneering photographer who extensively captured the conflict.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts a floating bridge formed by boats tied together, spanning a wide river, with a fort visible on the opposite bank. It represents a moment of relative calm amidst the conflict, showcasing the infrastructure used during the war.
Technique & Style
The photograph is characterized by its stillness, a result of the technological limitations of early cameras that made capturing fast-paced action impossible. Burke's work focuses on landscapes, infrastructure, and portraits, providing a detailed visual record of the war.
History & Provenance
John Burke was a key photographer during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, which took place from 1878 to 1880. His photographs are among the earliest extensive visual documentation of the conflict.
Artist & collection
