Portrait of Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy

Sir Jamshetjee Jeejeebhoy (1783-1859) was a notable businessman, philanthropist and one of the most prominent citizens of Mumbai. His philanthropy extended towards setting up hospitals, schools, charities and public buildings. The Sir Jamshetjee Jeejeebhoy School of Art, formerly known as the Bombay School of Art, was set up due to his support. He also donated generously towards the establishment of the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, then the Victoria & Albert Museum, Bombay.

This photograph of Jeejeebhoy from the Museum’s collection is an example of early portrait photography, which mimics elements of chiaroscuro, single-point perspective or having the sitter facing the painter or photographer at eye level.