Lot Essay
The first in a sequence of half-plate views of the details of the Ibn Tulun mosque. Clearly smitten by the repetitive, but varied forms of the arches, the artist produces a surprisingly modern image, flattening the perspective in a way that is more familiar from the work of 20th century photographers. The bright sunlight casts strong shadows and works to great effect in highlighting the details of the tiny window, the rosettes and the parapet.