Session One: Seeing Historically: Photography, Knowledge, and Power

The photograph is titled “Two Maratha boys from Akalkot”; by Hurrychund Chintamon, India; 1867, found on the Encyclopedia section of Impart, by the Museum of Art & Photography (MAP), Bengaluru.

The two boys are the focus of the photograph, judging by their position at either side of the photograph. The photograph appears to be posed, rather than spontaneous. The backdrop behind them looks like that from a photographer’s studio, since it is plain aside from a “classical”-looking vase that reminds me of architectural decorations on classical or neo-classical buildings. The lighting draws attention to their garments and detailed jewelry (e.g. the delicate chains that connect to a ring worn on one finger). The textiles making up the garments looks like a type of Indian brocade embroidered with zari. The boys appear to come from a wealthy family, judging by their garments, jewelry, accessories (perhaps more accurately weapons?) and the fact that the photograph is formally posed inside a photographer’s studio.

I cannot tell if the climate of the area where the photo was taken influenced the comfort of the sitters during the session, and if it influenced the development of the photo itself. I cannot tell if the boys were willing to be photographed or obliged their parents/caregivers. I am unsure if the studio was in the same area that the boys came from, or if they travelled a long way to reach the studio. I don’t know whether the photograph was taken for a family album or other purposes.