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James Bruce eighth Earl of Elgin, 1860 (b / w photo)
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James Bruce eighth Earl of Elgin, 1860 (b / w photo)
5924298 James Bruce eighth Earl of Elgin, 1860 (b/w photo) by Beato, Felice (Felix) (1825-c.1908); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: James Bruce eighth Earl of Elgin and twelfth Earl of Kincardine, High Commissioner and Plenipotentiary in China, 1860.
Photograph by Felice Beato (1825-1907), 2nd China War (1857-1860), 1860.
James Bruce, eighth Earl of Elgin, was the son of the Lord Elgin who famously purchased the Parthenon Marbles, an act that still causes controversy today. The eighth Earl served in many senior diplomatic and colonial government positions, notably as Governor General of Canada and Viceroy of India. He also played a prominent role in the British incursions into East Asia. During the China expedition of 1860 it was upon his orders that the Chinese EmperorAs Summer Palace was burned to the ground.); eNational Army Museum; British, out of copyright
Media ID 22324074
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Diplomacy Ideology Imperialism
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the dignified presence of James Bruce, the eighth Earl of Elgin, in 1860. Taken by renowned photographer Felice Beato during the second China War, this image showcases Lord Elgin's role as High Commissioner and Plenipotentiary in China. Lord Elgin was not only a prominent diplomat but also held significant colonial government positions throughout his career. He served as Governor General of Canada and Viceroy of India, leaving an indelible mark on both nations' histories. However, it was his involvement in British incursions into East Asia that remains controversial to this day. One notable event under Lord Elgin's command was the burning down of the Chinese Emperor's Summer Palace during the China expedition of 1860. This act symbolized Britain's imperialistic ideology and its dominance over foreign lands. The son of Lord Elgin who famously acquired the Parthenon Marbles, James Bruce carried on his family legacy while forging his own path in diplomacy and politics. His portrait reflects a man with immense power and influence, embodying both the triumphs and controversies associated with colonialism. Preserved by the National Army Museum in London, this photograph serves as a reminder of an era marked by political maneuverings, territorial expansionism, and conflicting ideologies. It is a testament to how photography can capture not just individuals but also historical moments that shape our understanding of past events.
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