Set of 2 back to back photographs of Bombay

This lot has the 2 photographs pasted on mount back-to-back.

Front:
Bourne and Shepherd
Native town from Malabar Hill. Bombay
Circa 1870s
Albumin print mounted on card
8.5 x 11.25 in (21.4 x 28.6 cm)

Titled "Native town from Malabar Hill. Bombay" and numbered “2510” in the negative (lower left). Inscribed "Bombay" in the centre on the mount.

In this photograph one can see large areas of thick vegetation, with only a few scattered structures visible, two tall chimneys with their mills hidden in the vegetation, and dhows cruising the waterways of the Back Bay.

Unfortunately, a vista of the concrete jungle would replace this idyllic location years later. This area, of which Chowpatty beach is a part, was also reclaimed land like the majority of Bombay (Mumbai). Additionally, land was reclaimed for the well-known Marine Drive promenade. From Nariman Point to Girgaon or Girgaum (near Malabar Hill), it is a long distance. While travelling, the Backbay is on one side and the Western line region is on the other. The neighbourhood on Marine Drive is often referred to as Queen's Necklace. So named because, at night, the continuous chain of curved lights resembled a necklace.

Verso:
Bourne and Shepherd
Bombay - University Clock Tower
1905
Albumin print mounted on card
8.5 x 11.25 in (21.6 x 28.5 cm)

Titled "Bombay - University Clock Tower", numbered “2511” (lower left) and signed "BOURNE & SHEPHERD" in the negative (lower right)

Rajabai Tower, located in Bombay (Mumbai), is an iconic landmark and historical structure that holds cultural and educational significance. It was completed in 1878 and was named after Rajabai, the mother of Premchand Roychand, a prominent 19th-century Indian businessman and philanthropist who funded the construction of the tower. The tower was designed by British architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, who constructed the tower, based it on the Big Ben, a clock tower in London. He also designed the University of Bombay's main building, of which the tower is an integral part. In March 1869, the tower's foundation stone was set. Large clock inside the imposing tower can be seen from a distance. Additionally, the clock plays melodies at predetermined intervals. The tower is a sight to behold and has been exquisitely decorated with oriental sculptures.

The tower stands within the University of Mumbai's Fort Campus and is closely associated with the university's history. It was initially conceived as a clock tower and a symbol of the educational institution. The architectural style is primarily Victorian Gothic, characterized by pointed arches, intricate carvings, and ornate detailing. Its height is 85 metres (280 feet, or 25 stories). The tower houses a beautiful clock, and its chime was intended to be audible across the campus and beyond. The tower's design and historical significance have made it a notable landmark in Mumbai.

Rajabai Tower continues to be an important symbol of the University of Mumbai and a significant architectural heritage of the city. It is not just a clock tower but also a cultural and academic symbol that represents Mumbai's colonial-era architecture and the educational heritage of the region.

The University of Mumbai's Fort Campus remains active, hosting various academic and administrative functions. Rajabai Tower, with its impressive architecture and historical importance, attracts tourists, students, and locals interested in exploring Mumbai's history and heritage.

The Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai, which was included on the list of World Heritage Sites in 2018, includes the tower.

This work will be shipped mounted

NON-EXPORTABLE

This lot will be shipped in "as is" condition. For further details, please refer to the images of individual lots as reference for the condition of each book.