Artwork

Caves of Karlie: No. 1, The Approach

Caves of Karlie: No. 1, The Approach, by William Johnson, 1858
Caves of Karlie: No. 1, The Approach, by William Johnson, 1858

Caves of Karlie: No. 1, The Approach is a photography by the Impressionist artist William Johnson. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Caves of Karlie: No.

About this work

Overview

Caves of Karlie: No. 1, The Approach is a photograph depicting the entrance to the ancient Karla Caves in Western India.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows the monumental entrance to the Karla Caves, a complex of shrines carved between the 2nd century BCE and 5th century CE, which provided shelter for monks, travelers, and traders.

Technique & Style

The photograph captures the imposing structure, with its carved doorway, tall pillars, arched windows, and a stone lion on top, set against a rocky cliff, with tiny figures of people and pack animals below.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Johnson

Artist

William Johnson

William Henry Johnson (March 18, 1901 – April 13, 1970) was an American painter. Born in Florence, South Carolina, he became a student at the National Academy of Design in New York City, working with Charles Webster…

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