Ecuries de Salomon—Stables of Salomon
Felix Bonfils
Description
Subject Matter:
In this photograph, the so-called stables of Solomon, a subterranean structure beneath the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, appear as though long abandoned. The heavy stone structure—a barrel-vault ceiling with rounded arch openings on either side—has no windows, an effect which reinforces the tomb-like quality of the scene. Indeed, the rubble and dirt which cover the floor and pile up in the back left corner of the chamber have almost “buried” these stables. The bright light that emanates from behind the camera belies the evident lack of natural lighting in the space. This image is one of hundreds of photographs made throughout Bonfils' career which purport to document various landscapes, cityscapes, and people of the eastern Mediterranean.
Physical Description:
This photograph shows an interior view of a stone chamber with a barrel vault and rounded-arch openings that line either wall. Dust and stone debris gather on the floor.
Usage Rights:
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