Photograph of Shivaji VI, Raja of Kolhapur and his suite. The Raja or Prince is seated centre, facing half left, chair turned to left. Four members of his suite seated to left and right, three of whom are young boys. Eight members of the Raja's suite stand behind, also finely dressed.

In an effort to strengthen diplomatic relations between the Indian rulers and the British Crown, Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Victoria, embarked on a tour of the Indian subcontinent in October 1875. The Prince visited 21 towns and cities across parts of modern-day India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Nepal, where he exchanged and received gifts from each ruler he met during his tour. The Prince returned to England in May 1876. As a result of the visit, six photographic albums were compiled of portraits, groups and views. Some of the photographs were commercial prints already available; others were specially taken to commemorate the tour.