Entrance to Shwedagon Pagoda, Rangoon, c.1905 (b/w photo)

View of one of the four elaborate entrances to the Buddhist Shwedagon pagoda, or stupa, in Rangoon (Yangon). Two giant Chinthes (guardians that are half lion and half dog or dragon) sit on either side of the steps leading up to the arched gateway. The gateway is decorated with ornate figures and the tops of tiered pagodas can be seen behind. Burmese locals in traditional dress and a monk stand on the steps and in huts on either side of the entranceway. Tall palm trees and tropical foliage surround the scene. Caption inscribed on negative: Entrance of Shwe Dagon Pagoda Rangoon, 288. Handwritten caption reads: Entrance to Burmese Pogoda or Church. [The photograph is unsigned, but the caption spelling and numbering suggest Philip Adolphe Klier]. Wood collection