Interpreters Collection

Mao Zedong, Chinese Communist leader, with visitors
Chinese Communist leader, Mao Zedong (1893-1976), also known as Chairman Mao. Seen here sharing a meal with two visitors, and two Chinese interpreters seated behind. Date: circa 1960s

Court Interpreter Shin, 1855 (litho)
1272304 Court Interpreter Shin, 1855 (litho) by Brown, Eliphalet (1816-86) (after); 21.75x15.375 cm; Free Library of Philadelphia; (add.info.: Kramer, Peter|Brown, Eliphalet M. Jr.|P.S. Duval & Co)

The Swazi Queen in Conference with the British and Transvaal Commissioners (engraving)
1626770 The Swazi Queen in Conference with the British and Transvaal Commissioners (engraving) by Wollen, William Barnes (1857-1936) (after); Private Collection; (add.info)

Tatsnoski, Second Interpreter, 1855 (colour litho)
1272322 Tatsnoski, Second Interpreter, 1855 (colour litho) by Brown, Eliphalet (1816-86) (after); 22.625x15 cm; Free Library of Philadelphia; (add.info.: Brown, Eliphalet M)

The Interpreter Waved at the Youth, c. 1900 (oil on canvas)
2969028 The Interpreter Waved at the Youth, c.1900 (oil on canvas) by Remington, Frederic (1861-1909); 68.9x102.2 cm; The Art Institute of Chicago, IL, USA; George F

The British Legation at Peking, now destroyed by Chinese guns (b / w photo)
6003685 The British Legation at Peking, now destroyed by Chinese guns (b/w photo) by European Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The British Legation at Peking)

Chief Interpreter Mryamo Yenoski and Tako-Juro, Interpreter, 1855 (colour litho)
1272326 Chief Interpreter Mryamo Yenoski and Tako-Juro, Interpreter, 1855 (colour litho) by Brown, Eliphalet (1816-86) (after); 22.625x15 cm; Free Library of Philadelphia; (add.info.: Brown)

Royal Exchange at Harrods, Knightsbridge. Erected for the convenience of Harrods visitors, the Royal Exchange fills many wants

Three Interpreters
Men of many words: These three Belgian exhibition guides have helped hundreds of visitors at the Liege Exhibition, being able to speak seven languages! Date: 1930

Thomas Cook Interpreters
A poster advertising Thomas Cook Interpreters - available to aid travellers arriving on all the principal rail and boat arrival locations at the chief cities and ports across Europe

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Interpreters have played a crucial role throughout history, bridging the gap between different languages and cultures. From political negotiations to everyday conversations, their skills have been invaluable in facilitating communication. In one iconic image, we see Mao Zedong, the Chinese Communist leader, engaged in deep conversation with visitors. The interpreter beside him ensures that his words are accurately translated, conveying his message effectively. Another historical lithograph depicts Court Interpreter Shin in 1855. Dressed in traditional attire, he stands as a symbol of cultural exchange during an era of great transformation. The Swazi Queen is captured conferring with British and Transvaal Commissioners in an engraving. Here, interpreters act as intermediaries between two worlds - enabling diplomacy and understanding to prevail. Tatsnoski appears next - a second interpreter depicted through vibrant colors on a lithograph from the same year. This artwork showcases the diversity of language professionals who dedicate themselves to breaking down barriers. Even religious figures like Theodore of Mopsuestia recognized the importance of interpretation. His teachings were spread far and wide thanks to skilled translators who ensured his words reached diverse audiences. Moving forward in time, we encounter "The Interpreter Waved at the Youth, " an oil painting from around 1900 that captures a moment where language transcends generations – reminding us how interpreters foster intergenerational connections. A black-and-white photograph reveals The British Legation at Peking destroyed by Chinese guns - a stark reminder that even amidst conflict and destruction, interpreters continue their vital work behind closed doors. Chief Interpreter Mryamo Yenoski and Tako-Juro appear together on another colorful lithograph from 1855 – exemplifying teamwork among interpreters as they navigate complex dialogues across cultures. In contrast to these historic depictions are three modern-day interpreters working side by side – representing the ever-evolving nature of this profession which remains essential for global communication today. Beyond political and diplomatic settings, it also find their place in commercial exchanges.