Postcards from the Raj

One of the most famous of the early European commercial photographers, and the most prolific photographer of the “picturesque” tradition, Samuel Bourne, a former bank clerk, arrived in India in 1836. Bringing with him a large amount of photographic equipment, developing local contacts, and having access to Indian bearers, Bourne travelled the subcontinent—producing over 2,000 negatives including some of the finest 19th century travel photography.

Initially partnering with William Howard, Bourne set up the Howard & Bourne studio in Shimla. They were joined by Charles Shepherd, and with the leaving of William Howard, the studio dropped his name to become Bourne & Shepherd. In 1866, in alignment with a growing culture of studio-photography, the Bourne & Shepherd establishment set up a branch in Calcutta, where it still trades as one of the oldest studios in the world, to this day.

One of the most prestigious studios of its time, it was patronised heavily by royalty, nobility, Europeans, Indians and a mushrooming upper middle class; and certain to be commissioned for special events such as the Delhi Durbar. Shepherd was a photographer of some standing but became more known as a master printer, staying back to head the business side of operations; and was somewhat overshadowed by Bourne, who became the primary photographic expert on India. Bourne’s work immortalised the Indian landscape and was fervently consumed by the British public in the form of postcards, book illustrations and views for albums.

“Bourne & Shepherd: Figures in Time” is presented by Tasveer in Mumbai, in partnership with the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum and organised in collaboration with MAP.