Nestled in the heart of Port-Louis, the Mauritius Museum of Photography offers an enthralling dive into the island's history, captured through the ever-evolving lens of the camera. As International Photography Day approaches, celebrated on Monday, August 19th, we take a closer look at this treasure trove of national heritage.
Established in 1966 by the visionary photographer and historian Tristan Bréville, this iconic museum houses an invaluable collection of vintage cameras, prints, and rare documents, charting the fascinating evolution of photography in Mauritius. Bréville, driven by his deep passion for the visual stories of the past, painstakingly gathered these historical snapshots over the years, eventually realizing the need to create a museum to safeguard this precious legacy. His dedication birthed an extraordinary compilation, featuring photographs that date back to the 19th century. Thus, the Mauritius Museum of Photography was born, with the noble mission of preserving this unparalleled heritage.
Visitors to the museum are taken on a captivating journey through the photographic techniques of days gone by, from the early daguerreotypes to the pioneering stereoscopic films. The themed collections offer a rich exploration of Mauritian life across different eras—evocative portraits, breathtaking landscapes, scenes of everyday existence, and the intricate colonial architecture. Each image offers a portal into a bygone era, presenting the island's history from a distinctly unique perspective.
Among the museum's prized exhibits is a collection of cameras, ranging from a 1773 press camera to the first Gaumont stereoscopic film camera, which revolutionized cinema in 1913. Additionally, an impressive archive of over 400 newspaper clippings, spanning the period from 1839 to 1945, adds depth to the historical narrative. The photographs on display provide a mesmerizing panorama of Mauritius's past, capturing everything from the grandeur of colonial sugar estates to the humble simplicity of remote villages and the urban sprawl of towns like Rose Hill. Architecture, both traditional and modern, is prominently featured, particularly the distinctive structures of Port Louis.
However, the Museum of Photography is far more than a mere exhibition space. It stands as a vital hub for research and cultural exchange, regularly drawing scholars from around the globe, captivated by the richness of its collections and the significance of its preservation efforts. The museum also hosts workshops, lectures, and guided tours, all aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of photographic heritage and fostering artistic expression.
A visit to the Museum of Photography is a profoundly enriching experience for history and photography enthusiasts alike. The museum's stone buildings, steeped in history, create a unique atmosphere, further enhanced by the captivating stories and anecdotes shared by the knowledgeable guides.
The Mauritius Museum of Photography is not just a cultural institution; it is a true national treasure, a repository of memory and legacy, inviting us to rediscover the island's history through a fresh lens. By celebrating Mauritius's photographic heritage, the museum plays an indispensable role in preserving the island's cultural identity, ensuring that this priceless legacy is passed down to future generations.
Visitors are welcome from 10 AM to 3 PM, Monday to Friday. Admission is Rs 300 per person.
