Modernising Collection

Building work on the widening of the Swanley Bridge in Kent. 1938

Rama IV (Mongkut)
CHAO FA MONGKUT Pictured with Queen Rampuy. Began work on modernising Siam (Thailand). Relinquished Cambodia to French in 1867

Japanese Diner and Waiter in Western Dress, c. 1879 (b / w photo)
701559 Japanese Diner and Waiter in Western Dress, c.1879 (b/w photo) by Stillfried, Baron Raimund von (1839-1911); Private Collection; Austrian, out of copyright

Symbolic cutting of pigtails in Shanghai, China
At Shanghai, 500 young men voluntarily relinquish their traditional pigtails, symbolising the new spirit of China. Date: 1911

Movement of revolt in China, evolution of the Chinese army, illustration from Le
XIR414750 Movement of revolt in China, evolution of the Chinese army, illustration from Le Petit Journal, supplement illustre, 29th October 1911 (colour litho) by French School

Modernisation of China, Chinese having their pigtail cut off in Shanghai, illustration
XIR346509 Modernisation of China, Chinese having their pigtail cut off in Shanghai, illustration from Le Petit Journal, supplement illustre, 5th February 1911 (colour litho) by French School

Steam engine passing by the building work being carried out for the widening of the Maidstone Bridge over the river Medway in Maidstone, Kent. 1939

Building work being carried out for the widening of the Maidstone Bridge over the river Medway in Maidstone, Kent. 1939

Symbolic cutting of pigtails in Shanghai, China
At Shanghai, 500 young men voluntarily relinquish their traditional pigtails, symbolising a new modernising spirit in China

All Professionally Made to Order for Quick Shipping

"Embracing Change: Traces of Modernisation Through Time" Step into the past and witness the transformative power of modernisation. From the building work on the widening of Swanley Bridge in Kent back in 1938 to Rama IV's reign, change has always been a constant force. In a captivating black and white photograph from 1879, we catch a glimpse of a Japanese diner and waiter donning Western attire – an intriguing symbol of cultural fusion and adaptation. The symbolic cutting of pigtails in Shanghai, China serves as a powerful reminder of societal evolution. As illustrated through Le's depiction, it signifies not only personal liberation but also reflects the movement for revolt within China itself. China's journey towards modernity is further exemplified by its people willingly parting ways with their traditional pigtail hairstyles. This act represents their determination to embrace progress and shed old customs that no longer serve them. As steam engines thundered past construction sites during Maidstone Bridge's expansion or Swanley Bridge's widening, these scenes epitomize how infrastructure development played an integral role in propelling societies forward. Through these snapshots frozen in time, we witness history unfolding before our eyes – capturing moments where tradition meets innovation. The process may have been gradual or even met with resistance at times; nonetheless, it showcases humanity's relentless pursuit to adapt and thrive amidst changing times. Modernisation is not merely about technological advancements or architectural transformations; it encompasses society as a whole. It challenges us to question norms, break free from constraints imposed by tradition, and embrace new possibilities that lie ahead. So let us celebrate those who dared to cut their pigtails symbolically or embarked on ambitious construction projects – they are pioneers paving the way for progress. Their stories remind us that change is inevitable but can be harnessed as a catalyst for growth if we choose to embrace it wholeheartedly.