Dancing girls

The theme of Indian courtesans and their accompanying male musicians was a popular one, not only in albums but also as postcards, and likely intended for European consumers. This photograph was taken in a studio; the backdrop is seen propped in place by studio assistants. Images such as these foster in nineteenth century Westerners stereotypical perceptions of the so-called exotic and decadent East. Although the dancers face the camera with impassive expressions and stand stiffly in their assigned poses, the choice of subject itself conveys underlying sexual connotations.

In the 1800s strict codes and hierarchies defined the world of courtesans, who were recognized as a professional class distinct from common prostitutes, in both Hindu and Muslim society. They were educated women who also paid taxes and received government protection. Courtesans were trained from a young age to dance, sing, converse, and amuse. Young sons of the gentry were sent to courtesans' salons for lessons in etiquette and poetry appreciation. The Indian acceptance of courtesans as respectable differed from the official British response to them. While fascinated by and attracted to the courtesans, the British also considered these women to be threats to Victorian codes of morality.