Photograph of the Maharaja of Travancore, seated in an armchair, facing half to the left, with left hand on arm of chair. He wears a long tunic with high neck, long sleeves and a spotted lining; a turban with jewelled ornament. Plants in pots behind.

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.