2-981-848 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Prince of Wales on board the State Barge of the Maharajah at Benares, from a sketch by one of our special artists, 1876. The future King Edward VII in India. Here he is making a '...voyage up the river [Ganges] to Ramnuggur, the palace of the Maharajah of Benares, two miles above the city...The barge was handsome and quaint. It was long and narrow, with two carved wooden horses of nearly full size prancing on the prow...The canopy was covered with gold fringe, the seats beneath of blue velvet...The river was kept clear of all boats with the exception of those allowed to take part in the procession. This was done to prevent accidents, as it was feared that they might crowd the river, and that the steamer towing the Royal barge might upset one or more, causing loss of life'. From "Illustrated London News", 1876.