Artwork
Untitled (recto)
Untitled (recto) is a photography by the Impressionist artist Skeen & Co.. It dates from 1884 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This 19th-century photograph depicts a group of Thai monks and worshippers arranged outdoors with religious objects.
About this work
You can learn more about this type of image by looking at the work of artist: Skeen & Co.
This photo shows people in traditional clothing from 19th century England.
The people in the photo likely didn't see the finished picture. It was made for a European audience. These kinds of photos were collected for information or as souvenirs. They helped people imagine faraway places.
You can learn more about this type of image by looking at the work of artist: Skeen & Co. (British, active 1860–1920)
Overview
This 19th-century photograph depicts a group of Thai monks and worshippers arranged outdoors with religious objects.
Subject & Meaning
The image was intended to represent a cultural type rather than document individual lives, capturing the traditional attire and practices of the subjects for a European audience.
Technique & Style
The photograph was likely taken by a European photographer, possibly from one of two British firms operating in Ceylon, and features subjects posed outside due to the limited lighting inside temples.
History & Provenance
The photograph was created for European collectors, who used such images as information, souvenirs, or to fuel their imagination about distant cultures.
Context
The work is associated with the style of Skeen & Co., a British photographic firm active from 1860 to 1920.
Artist & collection
