INDORE. Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar [ruling 1886-1903].

An interesting triple portrait showing the Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar with two other princes of the dynasty. The photograph, which measures 267 x 215mm, is mounted on a degraded old grey card album sheet and is rather badly affected by small worm holes. These do not show up greatly when placed against a dark background but we have photographed it against a white background so that they are more visible. There are actually only 4 amall holes in the Maharaja’s clothing and none affecting his face or those of the other two sitters. Shivaji Rao Holkar was born in 1859 and ruled from 1886 until 1903. Photographs of him seldom appear: his father Tukoji Rao and his successor Yashwant Rao were much more often photographed. The Maharaja was made a Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of India in June 1887 and this image probably predates that event. The reverse of the card has a good portrait of Tukoji Rao Holkar who ruled from 1844 to 1886. This measures 275 x 223mm. The card sheet is very damaged around the photographs but that could easily be solved by matting. jul10/3

Despite the card having not survived well for over 125 years the photographs retain the fine, rich toning the best 19th century artists achieved. Although there are no photographer’s credits this and others from this group are similar to the work of Deen Dayal. Our own photographs are taken in natural light and we never use any later enhancement.