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Detail from a map of India and the Middle East, showing the route of the Prince of Wales' tour
The Prince of Wales's Tour of India in 1875-6

Albert Edward's tour aimed to strengthen ties between the two countries

WILLIAM SIMPSON (1823-99)

State reception of native princes by the Prince of Wales at Parell, Bombay

9 November 1875

RCIN 921106

This watercolour shows the Prince of Wales receiving the Maharao of Cutch. Shortly after his arrival, the Prince hosted a reception to meet with the rulers of western India, in accordance with Indian court customs. He offered attar (perfume) and paan (shavings of betel-nut, various seeds, spices and lime-paste wrapped in a betel-leaf) to each ruler. He also employed court attendants, shown here wearing specially designed uniforms decorated with the Prince of Wales’s feathers. These attendants held flywhisks and peacock-feather fans which were used within the Indian court and during processions. 


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