photo sharing and upload picture albums photo forums search pictures popular photos photography help login
Phil Douglis | all galleries >> Galleries >> Gallery Eight: Light and shadow shape meaning > Berber cave house, Matmata, Tunisia, 2008
previous | next
14-NOV-2008

Berber cave house, Matmata, Tunisia, 2008

Berbers have been living in cave houses here for centuries. I use the diagonal play of light and shadow here to suggest the passage of the ages. There is also a diagonal relationship between a young Berber boy and a hungry cat.

Leica V-Lux 1
1/800s f/8.0 at 21.7mm iso100 full exif

other sizes: small medium large original auto
share
Phil Douglis27-Oct-2009 20:46
There is a lot happening here, Claudia. It is an amazing place, and we were fortunate to be able to visit here. As to how can a home be a tourist attraction, the answer is one word -- money. The owners of this cave house welcome visitors because they are paid to do so.
BleuEvanescence24-Oct-2009 17:59
Also, from the little i know and see, i can only imagine that living in the dark (i don't see too many windows...) must be an influencing factor on who you are and how you approach life...outside. This is so intriguing. How can a home be a tourist attraction place? I would feel the same way as this young man. The cat is definitely too skinny...
Another of your breathtaking images...
Phil Douglis29-Nov-2008 20:04
Thanks for interpreting the diagonal shadow as symbolizing the young Berber's indecision on whether to hide, or reveal his presence. I can appreciate why he might feel indecisive -- his home is under siege by visiting tourists.
Carol E Sandgren29-Nov-2008 05:55
The Berber looks apprehensive about hiding or showing himself in his doorway. Perhaps the shadow's half and half effect here could also be interpreted in this way.
Type your message and click Add Comment
It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest.
Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help private comment