Approach to the temple at Wadi es-Seboua, Nubia - an elegant addition to an oriental-inspired decoration - David Roberts, Egypt and Nubia 1838

Color lithograph: Approach to the temple of Wadi es-Seboua, Nubia

Delve into the ancient mystery of the ruins of Wady Saboua, nestled on the west bank of the Nile, about 500 meters from the river. Once the heart of a fertile plain, this site is now covered in shifting sand, burying the temple portico. Only a few thorny plants still bear witness to life, while the smooth ground is barely disturbed, aside from the faint traces of snakes and lizards. This desolate landscape perfectly embodies the prophecy of an Egypt rendered "completely deserted and desolate."

From a distance, the temple's propylaeum commands a presence despite its simplicity. The true spectacle lies in the avenue lined with andro-sphinxes, now mutilated but once impressive. This majestic driveway leads to a wide, paved pathway, approximately 180 feet long, flanked by colossal statues. At the end of the path, two even larger statues rest at the foot of the propylaeum, testifying to the temple's former grandeur. Although built of now-weathered sandstone, the remains of Wady Saboua offer a captivating glimpse of former magnificence and a rare opportunity to reflect on power and the passage of time. Adding this striking sight to your collection is inviting a piece of ancient history to grace your space with a touch of mystery and timeless grandeur.

Reproduction of an engraving of a drawing by David Roberts (1796-1864) made during his three-month journey from Alexandria to the temple of Abu Simbel in Nubia, a journey of more than fifteen hundred kilometers.

His drawings were already the subject of considerable success during his lifetime, in particular those published between 1846 and 1849 in the form of three volumes, published in London by FG Moon and entitled Egypt and Nubia, made from the drawings and sketches made during this trip to the banks of the Nile during the winter of 1838-1839, and lithographed by Louis Haghe.