1862 – Ancient Egyptian Pyramid In The Desert

Francis Frith (1822–1898) was an English photographer, pioneering in the field of travel photography. Born in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, he initially embarked on a career in the cutlery business before his interest in photography, a field then in its infancy, led him to become one of the most celebrated photographers of the 19th century. Frith is best known for his extensive series of images documenting the landscapes, cities, and monuments of the Middle East, a region relatively unknown to the Western audience at the time. In 1853, he founded the Francis Frith & Co photography company, embarking on expeditions to Egypt, Palestine, and Syria. His work during these travels was groundbreaking, offering detailed and picturesque views of significant historical and cultural sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor, and the streets of Jerusalem. Frith's photographs were not only valuable for their artistic merit but also served as important records of archaeological and architectural sites, some of which have undergone significant change or damage since the time of his documentation. His method of using large-format cameras ensured high-quality images that provided an unprecedented level of detail. Apart from the Middle East, Frith also photographed extensively across the United Kingdom, capturing landscapes, towns, and historical sites. His work contributed significantly to the Victorian interest in travel and the exotic, influencing perceptions of the Middle East in the West for years to come. Frith's photographs were disseminated through various means, including stereoscopic views, albums, and single prints. They were also published in several volumes throughout his lifetime, contributing greatly to his commercial success and popularity. Today, Francis Frith's work remains a valuable historical record and continues to be appreciated for its artistic beauty and technical excellence, offering a window into the world as it was in the 19th century.