Temple of Heaven from the Place Where the Priests Are Burnt, in the Chinese City of Pekin, October 1860

Felice Beato

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a classical Chinese architectural structure. The point of view appears to be level with the buildings. The buildings dominate the upper half of the frame. The closest structure features an ornate roof with intricate, upturned eaves adorned with symbolic ridge ornaments on the left side. Further back, a building with a series of circular, tiered roofs stands out on the right side, displaying detailed patterns and decorative friezes. Trees are visible in the distance at the base of the structures. The color palette is sepia-toned, giving the image a historical, monochromatic effect that highlights the architectural details.