Monolith of Tiahuanaco. Bolivia. Early 20th century.

Vintage photograph copied on gelatin silver paper with wide white margins. Measurements: 19.5 x 30 cm / 7.67 x 11.81 in. Work in good condition, it is exhibited framed.

In the image we appreciate one of the various lithic monoliths that made up the pre-Inca citadel and whose extension is estimated today to exceed 700 hectares. It is a photograph obtained during the early years of the 20th century, it was made on a special sensitive paper. The characters that flank the monolith allow us to appreciate the scale and verify its dimension greater than 4 meters. Note also that both peasants hold their hands in a way similar to that of the monolith. Has the photographer requested it, or is it a sign of an ancient cultural heritage? The ancient anthropological photography of Bolivia is one of the richest and most varied in Latin America and this excellent visual record with more than a century of existence testifies to this.

Some of these stone monoliths were later transferred to the city of La Paz and others placed in the lithic museum that has been formed in the place.

S.O-XIV-GHM