Fallen Statue at the Ramasseum, Thebes
1857
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1857
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This old photo shows broken stone ruins in a desert. Tall, carved pillars stand in a row, but their tops are missing. A large stone block lies on the ground, half-buried in the dirt. The sky is pale, and the whole scene looks worn, like it’s been there for a long time. The crumbling walls behind the pillars have faded carvings—maybe names or symbols. The photo looks like it was taken by someone exploring ancient sites. The desert sand and scattered rocks make it feel empty and quiet. If you like old photos of ruins, check out Francis Frith.