Installation portrait of Tashi Namgyal

A large group portrait recording the installation of Tashi Namgyal, 11th Chogyal or King of Sikkim (seated third from right) on 19th February 1915. This was a simple installation due to the royal household still being in mourning following the death of Sidkyong Tulku. A larger, more elaborate coronation took place on 16th May 1916. Seated are, Kunzang Dechen (seated fifth from right), Charles Bell, Political Officer for Sikkim (fourth from right) and Tashi Namgyal (third from right). Behind the seated row are several rows of European, Sikkimese and Tibetan lay and monastic officials. In the first standing row is Achuk Tsering, the Confidential Clerk to Charles Bell (far left), Dr Graham of the Dr Graham Homes, Kalimpong stands behind his left shoulder and Lobzang Choden (far left) the prominent Sikkimese landlord. Chonyi, the Maharaj Kumari of Sikkim stands behind Charles Bell's right shoulder.