Egypt–1999

This photo was taken during a visit to the temple of Queen Hatshepsut (1490 B.C.) located along the Nile River, close to the town of Luxor.

When you think of Egypt great structures come to mind – pyramids, temples, and the like. It’s very tempting to simply photograph the architecture and neglect the people who live their lives among so much history. As I was walking back from the temple I noticed the distant figure of a man walking towards me. He was carrying what looked like a very heavy load, and as he approached I saw that his build was extremely slight – even frail. Certainly he didn’t look strong enough to bear the weight of the jug he had with him.

I approached him and asked to take his photograph, capturing what I feel is a subject that speaks of dignity, perseverance, and accomplishment.