Museum Darulfalah of Delhi

We know that photographs, postcards and other ephemera became collectors' items. Through global networks of empire, these objects eventually made their way into museums and were prized and displayed. But what about the 'natives' or Indians in this story? And what does this have to do with Delhi?

Well, that's where the Museum Darulfalah of Delhi comes in! The image above is an envelope of a local museum that was set up in Sadar Bazar, sometime during the early 20th century. Its proprietors were Delhiwallas, most likely, and ran it as an antique dealership - where 'curious of the world' were 'purchased and sold'. It also looks as if the museum was financially sound. Its seal and stationary attest to this as does the fact that the letter was sent all the way to Florida (!)

What was in the museum, you might ask? We don't really know except for one fascinating bit of evidence. Its signature export was a grain of 'wonderful rice' which was inscribed with verses from the Holy Quran. This seed of rice which was gifted to patrons in different parts of the empire and beyond. Have a look at this piece on the British Library's blog with more information: wonderful-rice.html

Part of Museum Darulfalah's success appears to be the wealthy patrons it cultivated. The letter for one, clearly indicates that the Museum was targeting men of stature who perhaps bought other curious from the museum. I have more questions than answers at this point - what did the practice of selling or buying curious mean to the proprietors? Was this part of a larger network of Indians engaged in such businesses? 

Anyhow, I have little knowledge of what eventually happened to the museum. There is evidence that it shifted its base (or added a new one) to New Delhi after the 1930s but the trail is cold thereafter. If you have any information about this, I would love to know! Thanks for reading.