Portrait of James R. Walton

Description

Albumen cabinet card by the renowned photographic firm Bourne & Shepherd, Calcutta, presumably depicting James R. Walton, who is shown standing in a studio setting wearing formal Indo-Islamic attire, including a turban, embroidered waistcoat, long robe, and holding a walking cane. The carefully staged composition, with its drapery and studio furnishings, reflects the refined portraiture for which Bourne & Shepherd became internationally recognized during the late nineteenth century. The verso bears a contemporary presentation inscription reading: “For Robert Watson, Esq., from James R. Walton, with his best wishes. Calcutta, 19th March 1877.” While the inscription does not explicitly identify the sitter, it strongly suggests that Walton presented this portrait of himself to Robert Watson, providing secure provenance and an exact date.

Condition

Good overall condition consistent with age. The albumen print retains good tonal contrast with light, even fading and minor surface wear. The mount shows moderate corner and edge wear, light soiling, and age toning. The verso bears the original ink presentation inscription, which remains clear and fully legible.

References

Dehejia, Vidya. India Through the Lens: Photography 1840–1911. Washington, D.C.: Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, 2000.

Falconer, John. A Shifting Focus: Photography in India 1850–1900. London: British Library, 1995.

Pinney, Christopher. Camera Indica: The Social Life of Indian Photographs. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1997.

Thomas, Nicolas, ed. The Art of Photography in Colonial India. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2018.

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