Home > Historic > Colonial history
Setting up a camera shot, Kashgar, western China
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Setting up a camera shot, Kashgar, western China
Local men stand watching as a western man sets up his camera to take a shot, on a trip through Kashgar, western China. Photograph by Ralph Ponsonby Watts
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4414789
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10279511
1932 Camera Colonialism Kashgar Ponsonby Ralph Setting Shot Trip Watching Xinjiang Racial
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Asia
> China
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph taken by Ralph Ponsonby Watts in 1932, we witness a moment of cultural exchange and curiosity in the historic city of Kashgar, western China. The scene unfolds as a western man, dressed in a suit and hat, meticulously sets up his camera to capture a shot. Local men, dressed in traditional garb, gather around him, intently watching and observing the process. The image transports us back in time to the 1930s, a period marked by the intersection of colonialism and exploration. The western man, likely a traveler or photographer, represents the intrusion of the western world into the far reaches of China's Xinjiang region. The local men, on the other hand, embody the rich cultural heritage and history of Kashgar, a city that has been a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange for centuries. The photograph captures the racial and cultural tensions that were prevalent during this time, yet it also highlights the sense of wonder and fascination that can arise from such encounters. The men's expressions suggest a mix of curiosity and skepticism, as they observe the western man's technology and techniques. The scene is a reminder of the complex and nuanced interactions between different cultures and the role that photography played in documenting and shaping perceptions of the "Orient" during the colonial era. Overall, this photograph is a powerful reminder of the historical significance of Kashgar and the rich cultural tapestry that has shaped its past and continues to influence its present. It invites us to reflect on the complexities of colonialism and the ways in which it impacted the lives of people in far-flung corners of the world.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.