Home > Africa > South Africa > Related Images
South Africa Kimberley De Beers Diamond Mine pre-1900
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
South Africa Kimberley De Beers Diamond Mine pre-1900
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 32390696
© The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive / Mary Evans
Beers Colonialism Diamond Diamonds Kimberley Mine Miner Miners Mining Pre 1900
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> South Africa
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2023
EDITORS COMMENTS
This vintage photograph, taken pre-1900, offers a glimpse into the early days of diamond mining at the Kimberley De Beers Mine in South Africa, long before the company's global fame. The image, part of The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive Collection from Mary Evans Prints Online, transports us back in time to the late Victorian and Edwardian eras when the British Empire's colonial pursuit of wealth and resources led to the discovery of the world's largest diamond deposits. The photograph shows a lantern-lit scene of miners at work, their faces illuminated by the flickering light, as they laboriously dig through the earth in search of precious diamonds. The mine's entrance looms large in the background, a testament to the immense scale of the operation. The rough terrain and rugged conditions are evident in the rough-hewn rock formations and the worn, dusty clothing of the miners. The discovery of diamonds in Kimberley in 1867 marked the beginning of an era of intense mining activity that would transform the region and the global diamond industry. The Kimberley Mine, also known as the Big Hole, eventually grew to be over 463 feet deep and 1,800 feet in diameter, making it one of the largest excavated holes in the world. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the human endeavor and perseverance required to unearth the world's most precious gems, and the profound impact of colonialism and imperial ambition on the history of South Africa and the global diamond trade.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
