On the Roof of the Great Temple

Temple of Isis on the Roof of the Great Temple of Dendera by David Roberts

Description: "Temple of Isis on the Roof of the Great Temple of Dendera" by David Roberts is a fascinating portrayal of the small sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis, located on the roof of the Hathor Temple at Dendera in Upper Egypt. Created in the mid-19th century, this work captures the intricate architectural details and the unique position of the temple, offering a view of its elevated structure set against the vast landscape of the Egyptian desert. Roberts emphasizes the fine carvings and the reliefs that adorn the temple walls, which are bathed in the bright sunlight of the Egyptian day. The use of warm ochres, browns, and blues in the sky brings out the textures of the stone and gives a sense of the monument’s ancient grandeur.

David Roberts (1796–1864) was a Scottish artist known for his detailed and evocative paintings of the Middle East and Egypt. His visit to Egypt in the 1830s resulted in a series of works that documented many significant archaeological sites, providing a window into these historic locations at a time when they were largely unexplored by the Western world. "Temple of Isis on the Roof of the Great Temple of Dendera" reflects Roberts' commitment to capturing the essence of ancient Egyptian architecture and culture, with a focus on both the monument’s grandeur and its spiritual significance. This artwork stands out not only for its artistic qualities but also as a historical document that highlights the importance of the Dendera complex in Egypt's rich cultural heritage.

Details:

• Location and Date Created: Dendera, Egypt, mid-19th century.
• Medium: Lithograph originally based on watercolor sketches.
• Full Artwork Name: Temple of Isis on the Roof of the Great Temple of Dendera by David Roberts.
• Artwork Style: Orientalism with elements of Romanticism.
• Subject/Topic: A depiction of the small Temple of Isis located on the roof of the Hathor Temple in Dendera, emphasizing the architectural detail, cultural significance, and historical context of ancient Egyptian worship practices.