COLLECTION OF PHOTOGRAPHS. [INDIA - PHOTOGRAPHY] A Comprehensive Survey Portfolio of Southern India, the Madras Presidency, and Indian Life. Circa 1875. A substantial portfolio containing 96 albumen prints, comprising large-format landscape/architectural views (approx. 200 x 250 mm) and multi-image boards featuring smaller ethnographic studio portraits and street scenes, mounted across 47 large card stock boards (474 x 308 mm). Housed in a protective cloth slipcase labeled circa 1875. Many individual plates are captioned in a neat, contemporary cursive hand on the lower margins of the card mounts. Mounts with typical edge wear, light uniform toning and/or fading, and scattered foxing mostly restricted to margins. AN EXTENSIVE AND REMARKABLY DIVERSE COMPILATION DOCUMENTING SACRED SITES, ETHNOGRAPHIC OCCUPATIONS, STREET LIFE, AND SHIKAR (HUNTING) SCENES. This expansive portfolio runs the entire gamut of late 19th-century colonial Indian photography, blending grand architecture, intimate human studies, and sporting culture. Prominent subjects and individual plates include: Topography & Architecture: A striking view of 'Tiraputty' [Tirupati], capturing the sacred Kapila Theertham temple and waterfall nestled at the base of the Tirumala hills, alongside a beautifully balanced composition titled 'Indian Well and Foliage, Madras'. Manners and Customs: Fine multi-image ethnographic boards featuring street-life studies and formal studio portraits of local occupations, including 'Dancing Girl' and 'Dressing Boy' [Image], alongside detailed captures of traditional transport such as horse buggies and bullock carts. Sporting and Wildlife: A highly desirable sequence documenting local wildlife and scenes from a shikar (tiger hunt), capturing the camp, trackers, and trophies of a classic Anglo-Indian expedition. Given the region and the period, portfolios of this scale and specific mixed-subject matter were often compiled by premium regional commercial studios such as Nicholas & Co. (Madras) or Bourne & Shepherd to serve as definitive visual encyclopaedias of India for aristocratic visitors and colonial officials. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing