The acclaimed Scottish photographer and travel writer, John Thomson (1837-1921), embarked on an expedition to Asia in 1862, traversing through China extensively during the late 19th century. His collection of photographs offers an unparalleled and detailed visual narrative of China and its denizens during that historical period. The comprehensive scope, profound depth, and artistic merit of Thomson’s photographic endeavors have distinguished him as one of the preeminent travel photographers.

The prevalent technique for capturing photographs during that period was the wet-collodion process. This method required the use of a glass negative to make an exposure, a delicate operation that had to be performed in complete darkness, typically within a mobile darkroom tent on location. As a result, Thomson’s travels necessitated the transport of numerous crates, glass negatives, and containers filled with highly combustible and toxic chemicals.

Unique amongst his peers operating in the Far East at the time, Thomson was neither a government emissary nor a missionary. He was a professional photographer deeply intrigued by Asia and its inhabitants. Thomson demonstrated an open-minded perspective and a keen sensitivity towards the lives and environments of his subjects. His genuine portrayal of the land, the people, and their daily routines laid the foundation for what we now consider a “photojournalistic” style. 

Learn more: 

Wellcome Library, London. “Through the Lens of John Thomson.” Exhibition Website. Accessed 18 July 2023. http://www.johnthomsonexhibition.org/.