Grande approche du temple de Philae, Nubie 1842

This remarkable lithograph, titled Grande approche du temple de Philae, Nubie, transports us to one of the most iconic temple complexes of ancient Egypt, as seen through the romantic and precise eye of David Roberts (1796–1864). Created during his legendary journey along the Nile in 1838–39, this work is part of his monumental series "Egypt and Nubia", which helped shape the 19th-century European vision of the Orient.

Executed in tinted lithography by the master printer Louis Haghe, the plate captures the grandeur of the approach to the Temple of Isis on the island of Philae. The dramatic architectural perspective, flanked by colonnades, leads the viewer’s eye toward the massive pylons adorned with ancient reliefs. Tiny figures in the foreground emphasize the scale and majesty of the site while hinting at the fascination Egypt held for Western explorers and scholars of the era.

Published in 1842 by F.G. Moon, London, the print belongs to one of the most celebrated illustrated travel works of the 19th century. Roberts’ dedication to accuracy, combined with Haghe’s technical brilliance, resulted in images that were not only visually stunning but also ethnographically and architecturally informative.

A cornerstone of Orientalist art and an enduring tribute to ancient Egyptian civilization, this lithograph remains a rare and culturally significant artifact from the golden age of travel and exploration.

Lithograph

Archaeology - Egypt

Louis Haghe lith. - mounted on cardboard 34 x 51cm

Good condition