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The Kumbum at Gyantse, a multi-storied set of Buddhist chapels, from a fascinating album which reveals new details on a little-known campaign in which a British military force brushed aside Tibetan defences to capture Lhasa, in 1904
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The Kumbum at Gyantse, a multi-storied set of Buddhist chapels, from a fascinating album which reveals new details on a little-known campaign in which a British military force brushed aside Tibetan defences to capture Lhasa, in 1904
The Kumbum at Gyantse, a multi-storied set of Buddhist chapels, from a fascinating album which reveals new details on a little-known campaign in which a British military force brushed aside Tibetan defences to capture Lhasa, in 1904. The Tibet Expedition was launched from India and sanctioned by Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India, who was concerned over Russian influence and supposed advance toward the border. The expedition eventually gained a number of concessions from Tibet, nominally under Chinese control at the time, but whether the effort was worth the return is certainly up for debate. This album came by direct descent from the family of Captain William Charles Hayman, ADC to the expedition's leader, Colonel Francis Younghusband of the Indian Political Service (Younghusband was accompanied by a strong military escort commanded by Brigadier General James Macdonald). The photographs show various elements of the expedition: military, monasteries, scenery, towns and locals. Date: 1904
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Media ID 32266216
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Advance Buddhism Buddhist Campaign Capture Chapel Chapels Gyantse Hayman Journey Lhasa Multi Reportage Storied Tibet Tibetan Kumbum
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This photograph showcases The Kumbum at Gyantse, a grand multi-storied complex of Buddhist chapels, nestled against the backdrop of the breathtaking Tibetan landscape. The image is taken from an intriguing album, which offers a unique perspective on a lesser-known chapter of history: the British military expedition to Tibet in 1904. Led by Colonel Francis Younghusband of the Indian Political Service, the Tibet Expedition was authorized by Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India, in response to growing concerns over Russian influence and perceived advances toward the border. The expedition resulted in several concessions from Tibet, then nominally under Chinese control. However, the question of whether the campaign's outcomes justified the effort remains a topic of debate. This album, which has been passed down through the family of Captain William Charles Hayman, Younghusband's Aide-de-Camp, offers a fascinating glimpse into the expedition. The photographs within the album depict various aspects of the journey, including military engagements, monasteries, scenic vistas, towns, and local inhabitants. The Kumbum at Gyantse, with its intricate architecture and spiritual significance, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tibet. This photograph, taken in 1904, offers a glimpse into a time when the British Empire's reach extended to the far reaches of the world, shaping the course of history in unexpected ways.
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