Nowshera, Kashmir (number 1000)

In this photograph, the ancient Buniyar Temple in Nowshera, Kashmir, rises majestically, captured with remarkable clarity. Its sturdy granite construction, visible in the intricate stonework, has allowed it to endure since the 8th century, a testament to Kashmiri architectural resilience. The scene is bathed in the natural light of the day, emphasizing the temple's enduring form against the surrounding landscape. Samuel Bourne, who transitioned from banking to professional photography upon arriving in India in 1863, meticulously composed this image during a nine-month expedition to Kashmir. His use of the albumen print process from a wet collodion negative allowed for the rich tonal range and fine detail that bring this historical site to life, offering a glimpse into a distant past.