Accession Number
1994/2.28.6

Title
Tour de David – The tower of David

Artist(s)
Felix Bonfils

Artist Nationality
French (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
circa 1867-1885

Medium & Support
albumen print on paper

Dimensions
14 in x 10 15/16 in (35.56 cm x 27.78 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Margaret and Howard Bond

Subject matter
A rectangular stone tower, which forms part of the larger defensive complex called the Tower of David, is presented here at a somewhat oblique angle viewed from below. The stark contrast between the sunlit left and shadowy right side of the tower forms a crisp edge. The structure’s close proximity to the camera allows one to detect the variegated tones and textures of the decaying medieval stone. Further, the close cropping of the photograph largely decontextualizes the building, an effect that makes the tower appear solitary, forlorn, and perhaps even abandoned. This image is one of hundreds of photographs made throughout Bonfils's career which purport to document various landscapes, cityscapes, and people of the eastern Mediterranean.

Physical Description
The photograph shows a rectangular stone tower from below with crenellated battlements, small grated windows, and a sloping base.

Primary Object Classification
Photograph

Collection Area
Photography

Rights
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.

Keywords
city walls
defensive towers
fortification elements
travel photography