[Botanical Gardens, Calcutta] 1850s

Captain R. B. Hill made this photograph, "Botanical Gardens, Calcutta," using a camera and photographic paper. Although the date of the work is unknown, its existence speaks volumes about the British presence in India and the way it was perceived and documented. As a British officer, Hill's gaze is inherently colonial. The Botanical Gardens themselves were established by the British East India Company, initially for the purpose of cultivating plants for economic gain. Over time, they evolved into a space of scientific study and leisure, but always within the framework of colonial power. The photograph presents a serene, almost romantic view of the gardens. The presence of water lilies and the bamboo plants creates a sense of exoticism. Yet, this idealized image obscures the complex dynamics of colonialism, the exploitation of resources, and the subjugation of local populations. As viewers, we're invited to reflect on the layers of history embedded within this seemingly tranquil scene.