Untitled c. 1865

This albumen print was made in India in the late 19th century by Samuel Bourne, a British photographer known for his landscapes of the Himalayas. Bourne's work exemplifies how photography was used as a tool of exploration and documentation during the colonial era. The image presents a seemingly objective view of the Indian landscape, but it also embodies the power dynamics of the time. Bourne's photographs were often commissioned by the British government and wealthy patrons, thus shaping the perception of India for a Western audience. The sublime landscape and the native figures in the distance were common themes and visual codes. Further research into Bourne's personal papers, the photographic market in British India, and the socio-political context of colonial rule can reveal the complex layers of meaning embedded in this photograph. Understanding this helps us reflect on the role of art as a product of its time, shaped by cultural forces and institutional agendas.