Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Fashion
The Queen of Nepaul, 1857. Creator: Unknown
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
The Queen of Nepaul, 1857. Creator: Unknown
The Queen of Nepaul, 1857. The Queen of the late Rajah was the daughter of a Goruckpore, formerly of low birth, but possessed of great talent for intrigue, which was her ruin, as it was found necessary to divorce her on the ground of sterility, and she was succeeded by the mother of the present Rajah, who in his turn has taken to himself the lady whose Portrait we give'. Maharani Hiranya Garbha Kumari Devi was the principal wife of Jung Bahadur Rana. On the death of her husband in 1877, Devi committed sati. From "Illustrated London News", 1857
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36337558
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Jewel Jewels Nepal Nepalese Nepali Sari Sati Suttee Hindoostan Maharani Wood Engraving
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Asia
> Nepal
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Fashion
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Royalty
> People
> Royalty
> The Queen Mother
> Popular Themes
> Jung
> Popular Themes
> The Queen Mother
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled 'The Queen of Nepaul, 1857', depicts Maharani Hiranya Garbha Kumari Devi, the principal wife of Jung Bahadur Rana. At the time of this portrait, she was a prominent figure in the Nepalese royal court. However, her life was marked by controversy and tragedy. Born to a low-caste Goruckpore family, Devi rose to power through her exceptional talent for intrigue. Her beauty and cunning earned her the title of Maharani, or Great Queen, and she became the wife of the powerful Rajah of Nepal. However, her reign was short-lived. On the death of her husband in 1877, Devi, in accordance with the Hindu practice of Sati, immolated herself on her husband's funeral pyre. The image shows Devi wearing traditional Nepalese attire, including a vibrant sari and intricate jewellery. The wood engraving, published in the 'Illustrated London News' in 1857, captures the regal elegance and enigmatic allure of the Queen. Her story is a testament to the complexities of power, tradition, and desire in the 19th century. Despite her controversial end, Devi's legacy continues to intrigue historians and scholars, offering insights into the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal during the British colonial era. This evocative portrait serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and contradictions of royal life in the heart of the Himalayas.
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.