General View of Maidan and River, from Government House

John Edward Sache was born in Germany in 1824. He trained as a photographer in Berlin and Paris before emigrating to the United States in 1851. He initially worked as a portrait photographer in New York City, but soon diversified into landscape and architectural photography. In 1862, Sache moved to India, where he established a successful photographic studio in Bombay (now Mumbai). He specialised in portraits of the Indian elite, including maharajas and other members of the nobility. His photographs were in great demand and he became known for his ability to capture the personalities of his subjects. Sache also documented the architecture and landscapes of India, producing images that were widely distributed in Europe and the United States. His work helped shape Western perceptions of India during the colonial period. Sache returned to the United States in 1870 and continued to work as a photographer until his death in 1882. His legacy includes a vast collection of images that provide valuable insights into the social, cultural and political history of both the United States and India during the 19th century.