Artwork

Simla. The Mall near Combermere Bridge

Simla. The Mall near Combermere Bridge, by Samuel Bourne, 1866
Simla. The Mall near Combermere Bridge, by Samuel Bourne, 1866

Simla. The Mall near Combermere Bridge is a photography by the Impressionist artist Samuel Bourne. It dates from 1866 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This photograph, titled 'Simla.

About this work

You see a busy street in Simla, India, lined with British-style buildings and people walking under shady trees.

You see a busy street in Simla, India, lined with British-style buildings and people walking under shady trees.

Bourne took this photo in the 1860s when the British ruled India. The scene looks calm, but it’s actually a record of how the British shaped the town. The trees and bridge were built by them, and the people are a mix of locals and British officials.

To see more of these early photos, look up Samuel Bourne (British, 1834–1912).

Overview

This photograph, titled 'Simla. The Mall near Combermere Bridge', is part of a collection of images taken by Samuel Bourne in the 1860s. It captures a scene in Simla, India, during the British colonial era.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a street scene in Simla, showcasing British-style buildings and a mix of local and British individuals. The calm atmosphere belies the significant impact of British rule on the town's architecture and layout.

Technique & Style

The photograph is characterized by its clear documentation of the scene, highlighting Bourne's skill in capturing the details of the environment and its inhabitants.

History & Provenance

Taken in the 1860s, this photograph is part of a larger album that documents various locations in India and surrounding regions during the British colonial period.

Context

The image reflects the influence of British colonial rule on Indian towns, with the construction of buildings, bridges, and landscaping.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Samuel Bourne

Artist

Samuel Bourne

Samuel Bourne was a British photographer known for his prolific seven years' work in India, from 1863 to 1870.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.