[India] Herzog, P.A. & P. Higgins. 'The Abu Album'

1895-1896 (presented in 1904*). 43 gelatin silver photographs, all approx. 21 x 28 cm. Important diplomatic presentation album with (mostly) topographical views of Mhow, Central India, incl. image of a.o. Mount Abu (Rajasthan in northwest India), a two-part panorama, a portrait of Maharao Kaishri Singh, a series of attractive photos depicting Jain temples, views of the Adhar Devi Shrine, Abu Club and Cricket ground (founded in 1872), the Lawrence School and the Railway School. All photographs w. typed captions in English. The album is signed by the Maharao of Sirohi, Sir Kaishri Singh-ji Bahadur (1857-1920) and dedicated to Colonel Robert Henry Jennings (1839-1915), Resident of the Western Rajputana States. Maharao Kaishri Singh ruled over the Sirohi Princely State, including Mount Abu, from 1875 to 1920. Robert Henry Jennings was an important diplomat for the British in the "Great Game", as they called their struggle to control Afghanistan and the surrounding regions. Cont. blind-tooled morocco, title in gold on front cover, gilt turn-ins, a.e.g. Obl. folio.

Binding w. some professional restorations. *Manuscript presentation inscription in ink on front endpaper: 'Presented by His highness Sir Kaishreesingji Bahadur, G.C.I.E.K.C.S.I. maha Rao of Sirohi, Rajpulana to Col. R.H. Jennings, R.E.C.S.I., Resident N.R. States, in token of his friendship and cordial relations with the state. Dp. Sirohi, 25th January 1904 - Kaishree Singh'.