Resurrection of Christ

While Samuel Bourne is celebrated primarily for his pioneering landscape photography in 19th-century India, this artwork, "Resurrection of Christ," presents a striking departure from his well-documented photographic expeditions. Bourne spent seven prolific years in India, from 1863 to 1870, capturing the majestic Himalayas and intricate architecture with his large-format camera. His work with the firm Bourne & Shepherd established him as a premier travel photographer, known for his technical expertise and keen eye for composition. This oil painting, however, showcases a different facet of his artistic output, likely from his post-India period back in England. After returning in 1871, Bourne sold his interests in commercial photography and dedicated much of his creative energy to watercolor, though he continued to photograph as a relaxation. This painting suggests an exploration into religious themes and a traditional painting medium, contrasting sharply with the documentary nature of his Indian photographs. It offers a glimpse into his broader artistic interests beyond the photographic landscapes for which he is renowned.