This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

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Record of historical events

Victoria and Albert collected photographs that documented the political and military events that defined a period of global expansion

    JOSIAH ROWE (1809-74)

    Queen Victoria's Proclamation to the Prince's Chiefs and peoples of India

    1 Nov 1858

    Albumen print | 17.6 x 24.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2935014.a

    Photograph of an overhead view of a gathering of people in a square in Calcutta, now Kolkata, India. There is a building in the middle ground, which is decorated with an image of a crown and a sign reading 'GOD SAVE THE QUEEN'.

    The group of people are gathered to hear a reading of Queen Victoria's (1819-1901) proclamation, declaring her assumption of the governance of India.

    • Creator(s)

      Josiah Rowe (1809-74) (photographer)

    • 17.6 x 24.3 cm (image)

      26.5 x 33.2 cm (mount)

    • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

    • Subject(s)
      • Places
        • Asia
          • India
            • Bengal [India]
              • West Bengal [India]
                • Kolkata [West Bengal]
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