Interior and Arches of the Temple of Heaven Where the Emperor Sacrifices Once a Year, in the Chinese City of Pekin, October 1860

Felice Beato

National Gallery of Art

The image shows an elevated view of a traditional Chinese architectural complex. A treeline obscures the horizon and separates the sky from the buildings below. A stone balustrade leads to rectangular gateways, attracting attention towards a tiered-roof pavilion. The architecture features intricate carvings. The color palette is sepia, enhancing the aged feel. In the distance, more structures and trees surround the main pavilion.