Artwork

Temple at Naveshera, Kashmir, India

Temple at Naveshera, Kashmir, India, by Samuel Bourne, 1864
Temple at Naveshera, Kashmir, India, by Samuel Bourne, 1864

Temple at Naveshera, Kashmir, India is a photography by the Impressionist artist Samuel Bourne. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 19th-century photograph captures the Temple at Naveshera in Kashmir, India, highlighting the interplay between architectural decay and the surrounding natural landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The image contrasts the ordered, deteriorating temple structure with the majestic, overpowering natural environment, emphasizing the dominance of natural forces over human-made forms. Figures are present but secondary, primarily indicating scale.

Technique & Style

Samuel Bourne's composition balances architectural detail with expansive natural scenery, characteristic of his expeditionary photography style, which sought to frame 'picturesque' remote landscapes.

History & Provenance

Taken during Bourne's second Himalayan expedition (1863-1869), this photograph is part of his extensive Indian portfolio. It is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, where its style resonates with the museum's architectural motifs.

Context

Created during the British photographic expeditions in India, the work reflects the era's fascination with documenting remote, 'picturesque' locations, often juxtaposing human constructs with uncontrolled nature.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Samuel Bourne

Artist

Samuel Bourne

Samuel Bourne was a British photographer known for his prolific seven years' work in India, from 1863 to 1870.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.