Sphinx and pyramids, Giza Necropolis, Egypt. These 26th-century BC structures are made from limestone, with granite also used in the pyramids (tombs for the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt: Khafre, left; Khufu, right). The lower portions of the Great Sphinx, covered by desert sands, were excavated several times in the 19th century. This view dates to the period after 1867. An earlier excavation was marked by the Dream Stele (1401 BC) of Thutmose IV, at lower centre. The granite altar between the Spinx's paws (lower right) dates from the time of Rameses II (13th century BC). This albumen print is from the photographic studio Maison Bonfils.