Pharoah’s Bed, Island of Philae
Antonio Beato
Description
Subject Matter:
This photograph of the temple called "Pharaoh's Bed" or "Trajan's Kiosk" depicts the most iconic structure within the Philae complex, a popular subject for mid- to late-nineteenth century travel photographers. Like Francis Frith, whose version of this subject is also in UMMA's collection, Beato depicts the Egyptian site from below so that the building emerges from a bed of palm trees and other plants in this fertile area on the Nile River. Beato, however, situates the camera somewhat closer to the structure than Frith or fellow photographers elected to do, such that the temple and its decorated columns are half-obscured by palm trees. The photographer seems less interested in conveying information about the archaeological site than in offering an impression of the picturesque environment at Philae.
Physical Description:
View of an Egyptian temple and palm trees seen from below.
Usage Rights:
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