Heading: (India)
Author:
Title: Three photograph albums complied by the family of John Sinclair, First Lord Portland, governor of Madras, India, from 1912 to 1919
Place Published: India
Publisher:
Date Published: c.1913-1921
Description:

Two large and one small albums, containing approximately 950 photographs glued to the album leaves, most with inked captions on the leaves, various sizes from approx. 4.5x7 cm to 22x28 cm, silver prints and printing out paper. In addition, there are occasional additions of ephemeral material, such as invitations, announcements, etc. Albums are half morocco & cloth, two measure approx. 30x43 cm (11¾x17"); one is 20x25 cm (8x9¾").

Fascinating and revealing family albums from the upper levels of the British Raj, as the sun was just beginning to set on the British Empire but colonial rule was still strong, and the privileged rituals of British life in India carried on. The photographs include candid snapshots and vernacular views, with some commercial tourist shots. The photographs are arranged in general chronological order, with many group shots of family, friends, and schoolmates; trips through the country to tourist destinations and occasionally big game; visits to schools and medical facilities in performance of gubernatorial duty; dedications of bridges and various buildings; gymkhanas and jockey clubs; native Indians at work, play and worship; the occasional Indian prince or nobleman. and so much more. Four of the photographs are x-rays from 1914 showing "Peggy's broken (left) arm" before and after setting. Overall the albums provide an uninhibited view of colonial life in India, and an occasional revealing glimpse of the underlying culture of the native population.

One of the large albums with staining to rear cover; overall very good.