Label TextThis selection of 19th-century photographs of Egypt represents the early decades of
photography as an art form, a business, and as a critical element of visual culture. As
wealthy European and American tourists flocked to Egypt on the “Grand Tour” during
the 19th century, an industry of tourist mementos was born. Photographers like the
Zangaki brothers, of either Greek or Cypriot origin, began working as commercial
photographers in the late 19th century, operated mainly out of Cairo and other historic
locations along the Nile, selling postcard-like photos to travelers. Their images are valued
by historians for the view they present of Victorian era Egypt. The mosques, pyramids,
and other archeological wonders of Egypt appear here with over a century less of wear
and tear than today. These works provide a window to another time and yet remain
relatable to anyone who has ever snapped a vacation photograph or bought a postcard
to send home.
DimensionsOverall: 8 x 11 in. (20.3 x 27.9 cm)
Accession Number 2025.160
Classificationsphotograph
ProvenanceJeff Perry; Des Moines Art Center [gift from the previous, 2025]
Carlo Naya
ca. 1860s -1870s
Adelphoi Zangaki (the Zangaki Brothers)
ca. 1880s
