These Images Give A Rare Insight Into The Life Of A 19th Century Indian Maharajah

Maharajah Ram Singh ruled in the famous pink city of Jaipur between 1835 and 1880, and was also a keen photographer. Despite being a child when he ascended to the throne, the Maharajah embraced modern amenities and under his leadership the city became one of the most distinctive in the country.

Maharaja Ram Singh III/Alinari via Getty Images

He would often roam the streets incognito to observe how state officials were carrying out their work, and was recognised by the British Government, which added four guns to his salute and nominated him as a member of the Viceroy’s Legislative Council. During his reign new water works, gas works, museums and schools were built, and he devoted a lot of his time to capturing the costumes and culture of his people with his then state-of-the-art camera equipment. Here: Portrait of a woman in the harem of the royal palace of Jaipur, India, circa 1857. Continue reading »