View of Simla c. 1867

Curator: Samuel Bourne's photograph, "View of Simla," captures a panoramic vista. What strikes you first? Editor: The tonal range, definitely. It creates a sense of depth, almost pulling you into the scene. The light falls so precisely. Curator: Bourne was meticulous. Consider the colonial context: Simla, the summer capital of British India. His photographs visually reinforced British dominance. Editor: Interesting. I see now how the winding road almost seems to beckon, inviting the viewer—presumably British—to survey their domain. Curator: Precisely. But Bourne also captures the indigenous landscape. The trees and mountains resist complete subjugation. Editor: I appreciate that nuance. It elevates the photograph beyond mere propaganda. Curator: It reminds us that even seemingly objective images are deeply embedded in socio-political narratives. Editor: Indeed. A view is never just a view.