The artwork, entitled “Abu Simbel at Sunrise,” is a landscape piece created by artist Elizabeth Thompson. This work is associated with the Romanticism movement and forms part of the series “From sketch-book and diary, by Elizabeth Butler. 1909.”
In the artwork, the grandiose facade of the Abu Simbel temples is captured with the soft, warm hues of sunrise. The majestic statues are carved into a rock cliff and are basked in the subtle early morning light, casting gentle shadows that emphasize the intricate details of the ancient figures. To the left of the composition, a serene body of water reflects the dawn’s light, creating a harmonious balance between the natural and man-made elements. The foreground displays the rugged, uneven terrain of the surrounding desert, further enhancing the sense of solitude and timelessness that envelops the sacred site. The meticulous rendering showcases the artist’s ability to convey the awe-inspiring atmosphere of this historic locale through delicate and evocative brushwork.