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c. 1880s Keling or Kling people - Indian origin SE Asia
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c. 1880s Keling or Kling people - Indian origin SE Asia
c. 1880s Keling or Kling people - people of Indian origin living in the Southeast Asian Archipelago, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23435954
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This evocative photograph captures the essence of the Keling or Kling people, an ethnic group of Indian origin residing primarily in the Southeast Asian Archipelago, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, during the late 19th century. The Keling people, also known as the Chettiar or Nattukottai Chettiar, are a merchant community with a rich cultural heritage that can be traced back to the ancient Tamil kingdoms of South India. Dressed in traditional attire, this man exudes an air of authority and prosperity, reflecting the economic importance of the Keling community during this era. His white dhoti, a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and legs, is paired with a red angavastra, a draped cloth worn over the shoulder, and a gold-bordered shawl. The intricate gold jewelry adorning his earlobes, wrists, and neck further accentuates his regal appearance. The photograph was likely taken during the 1880s or 1890s, a time when the Keling community was thriving economically, particularly in the trade of rice, textiles, and precious metals. This early ethnographic image offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life and cultural practices of the Keling people during this historic era. The photograph's aged patina and slight imperfections add to its authenticity and charm, making it a valuable addition to any collection of Asian or ethnographic history. This vintage image invites us to explore the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Keling people and the broader history of Southeast Asia during the late 19th century.
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