John Thomson

Born in Edinburgh when photography was in its infancy, Thomson was to become one of its leading innovators. He was known as ‘China’ Thomson because of the incredible photographs he took when travelling in Asia.

Having become fascinated as a boy with the science behind the new medium, Thomson learned about optics, and therefore how camera lenses work, when apprenticed to an optician. Highly motivated to learn more, he gained a diploma at Edinburgh School of Arts which enabled him to attend Chemistry lectures at the University.

This practical foundation, along with an adventurous spirit, took him to Asia in 1862 where he made hundreds of astonishingly beautiful images under very difficult circumstances. He had to transport heavy photographic equipment through difficult terrain in a land where foreigners were seldom, if ever, seen. Thomson however was renowned for his engaging personality and was able not only to overcome many logistical challenges but also to establish trust with his subjects.

After ten years he returned to England having made his reputation with his incredible images. Settling in London, he set about publishing books of his photographs, the most famous of these is ‘Illustrations of China and Its People’ which was published in 1873. His other major work was ‘Street Life in London’, 1877; a compelling and sympathetic portraits of the capital’s poor which established social documentary photography as a new genre.

Thomson was awarded a Gold Medal for his work and was made Instructor in Photography at the Royal Geographic Society in 1886. Uniquely versatile, he also took portraits of high society figures by appointment to Queen Victoria in his Mayfair studio. Having retired to Edinburgh, he died on a tram during a visit to London.

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'John Thomson's China: Illustrations of China and Its People' - Visualizing Cultures