Scale Model of Queen Victoria Memorial Hall Calcutta, 1905 Print
An old 1905 print showing the plaster model of Victoria Memorial Hall of Calcutta (Kolkata). This print is a page from the London-based The Building News of Feb 17, 1905. That shows an eye-catching architectural plaster model of the Queen Victoria Memorial Hall. It shows the front and back views of the proposed building. Giving a rare insight before its construction.
The memorial lies on the Esplanade or the Maidan. In close proximity to the Government House (Raj Bhavan), Fort William, and the Hugli River. It was the brainchild of Lord Curzon then Viceroy of India (1899-1905). Queen Victoria died after a long rule in 1901. Lord Curzon suggested a fine memorial in her name. He recommended the construction of a grand edifice.
That would befit the late queen’s giant stature. Thus the building of the beautiful Victoria Memorial Hall was chosen. Its construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1921. The memorial comprises 77,000 sq ft, all built in white marble and spread out over 64 acres. British architect William Emerson was entrusted with the design.
Did you know – Lord Curzon left India in 1905, he was unable to witness the memorial materialize except perhaps in pictures.
From the collection – Raja Ravi Varma’s “Birth of Shakuntala” Oleograph 1894., Crawford Market Mumbai Interior View – Old Photo 1944., Five Views Of British Era Bombay, 5 Postcards 1900., The Dutch East India Company Book.
