This photograph shows a series of relief sculptures on the walls of the Shiva temple within the complex of the Hindu-Javanese Candi Prambanan, a Borobudur associated site built in the 9th century. The two other main temples within the compound are dedicated to the Hindu deities Vishnu and Brahma. The sculptures depict Hindu apsaras (heavenly nymphs) dancing or in various other stately poses. These sculptures are mounted on a parapet and run along the exterior of the temple. Upon close inspection, one would recognise the intricate detailing of the carvings, which represent the era during which Hindu-Javanese art reached its peak. This photograph is part of a portfolio containing an extensive photographic survey detailing the Candi Prambanan. It was compiled by Dr. Isaac Groneman, a Dutch scholar of Javanese history and culture. He was assisted by pioneer Indonesian photographer Kassian Cephas, who was responsible for the pictorial documentation during the excavation of the site from 1889 to 1890.
