(Curatorial caption, accessed 23 November 2014)
A government colonial official as well as a skilled photographer, Impey made numerous studies of Indian sitters, both individual portraits and groups engaged in characteristic activities. This paired group shows, on the right, a Thakur or minor ruler in Alwar State, while on the left players are engaged in the ancient Indian board game of pachisi. This photograph was among a number of Impey's portraits illustrating characteristic Indian types and activities, which were selected for display in the Indian Court at the Paris International Exhibition of 1867. The photograph's dark blank background contrasts with the white costumes and patterned fabric to striking effect.
