Petra. Tomb with stories [between 1898 and 1914]
American Colony (Jerusalem). Photo Department
1 negative : glass, dry plate ; 10 x 12 in.
#Petra #Jerusalem #PhotoDepartment #Nabatean #Jordan #WadiMusa #Corinthian #Hellenistic #Petra(Extinctcity) #photography




![The image displays a historical photograph, rendered monochrome due to its black and white tonality. The main subject is an ancient structure, specifically what appears to be an idol niche in the wall of a rocky façade. Its craftsmanship suggests considerable antiquity with visible erosion indicating it has been exposed to natural elements for many years.
The niche itself seems recessed within the rock surface, bordered by two circular indentations that resemble other niches or carvings made into the stones beside and above it. The texture of the rocks varies from smooth patches indicative of human chiseling work on the sides and top, contrasting with natural striations in the lower part.
In terms of context, this structure is noted to be located opposite an eagle shrine west of el Muzlim tunnel within Petra (Wadi Musa), which dates it approximately between 1920-1933. The photograph seems to have been taken by Eric and Edith Matson as per the watermark.
Additional details include a visible date stamp in the upper right corner, "24 JUN '87," suggesting when this photo might be referenced or documented (possibly for archival purposes), along with some indistinct scrawls at the bottom which appear to have been added later. The overall condition of the photograph indicates age and use.
Overall, it's an image capturing a piece of ancient history, preserved through photogra [...]](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/115/820/238/214/173/345/small/44455876352374b1.jpeg)

![The image depicts a rural scene with two individuals, one standing and another mounted on horseback. They are positioned near an extensive haystack composed of dried grass or straw that is piled up against what appears to be a wall made from stacked stones. The environment suggests a desert-like landscape with sparse vegetation and rocky terrain in the foreground. In the background, there's visible rolling hills under a clear sky.
The individuals' attire seems traditional for their region, possibly indicative of local customs or religious observances. The standing individual is dressed in long clothing that drapes over one shoulder, while the mounted person wears riding gear appropriate to horseback travel. A sacred tree grows out from what appears to be an ancient tomb structure known as a cenotaph, suggesting cultural significance within this landscape.
The overall composition of the photograph and its historical context indicate it may have been taken in or around Wadi Musa during the period between 1920-1933. It is associated with American Colony (Jerusalem) Photo Department and has an identification code provided by Loener's archive, which implies professional documentation typical for that time.
The photograph captures a moment of daily life within this arid region, reflecting aspects of cultural heritage, livelihood practices like straw harvesting, and possibly [...]](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/115/819/200/091/495/607/small/077ba033720d3917.jpeg)





![The image is a black and white photograph depicting the interior of what appears to be an ancient Nabatean tomb located in Wadi Musa, Petra region. The primary focus is on three large rectangular depressions or floor graves which are carved into the ground within a larger room-like structure made from stone.
Each grave has a flat headrest at its end with vertical indentations that suggest they may have been used for funerary purposes during historical times. These heads feature what seems to be an emblem, possibly related to religious symbolism known as "Dushara," which is associated with Nabatean culture and history. The construction technique indicates the use of mud-brick or similar material.
The tomb's walls show signs of wear such as cracks and faded areas where plaster may have been applied at some point in its past usage, suggesting significant age. Some elements within the room are not clearly visible due to the lighting conditions which create a high contrast effect between light and shadow across the entire scene. The photo appears aged with slight discoloration indicative of an old photograph.
The composition is balanced but somewhat sparse, directing attention primarily toward the graves themselves while also capturing part of the surrounding wall structure for context. This image seems historically significant as it offers insight into ancient burial pract [...]](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/115/782/490/397/411/693/small/d131514b21067800.jpeg)

![The image depicts a scenic view of mountainous terrain, likely captured from an elevated position. The landscape features rolling hills with varying shades of green and brown vegetation, indicative of arid or semi-arid conditions. In the foreground, there is a rough dirt path that winds its way through the rugged environment, adding texture to the scene.
The mid-ground reveals terraced fields, hinting at agricultural activity in this remote area. These fields are separated by stone walls, suggesting an organized system for crop cultivation amidst the natural landscape.
In the background, majestic mountain peaks rise against a soft blue sky with faint hints of mist or haze surrounding them. The overall lighting is warm and slightly faded, giving the photograph a vintage feel that suggests it could be from mid-20th century.
The effect of afternoon light can be discerned through the gentle illumination on the landscape, creating subtle contrasts between shadows and highlights across different elevations in the terrain. This soft glow enhances the textures of rocks, soil, vegetation, and farmland, making for a visually appealing image that captures both the raw beauty of nature and human interaction with it.
The photograph appears to be part of an archive from Matson Photo Service, which could have been involved in documenting various aspects of life or scenery during different periods. The specific reference "Petra Moun [...]](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/115/630/119/990/168/850/small/2545824d810fae16.jpeg)

