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Sri Lanka - Sinhalese Government Peon
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Sri Lanka - Sinhalese Government Peon
Sri Lanka - Sinhalese Government Peon. A peon in this region was mainly an attendant, orderly, office boy or person kept around for odd jobs. Date: circa 1910s
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Media ID 14380379
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Ceylon Documents Headdress Headgear Hold Holds Jan16 Lanka Lankan Official Sarong Servant Sheaf Sinhalese Peop
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures the image of a Sinhalese Government Peon from the 1910s in Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon). The peon, dressed in a military-style jacket and holding a sheaf of documents, exudes an air of authority and diligence. He wears a traditional Sinhalese headgear or headdress, which adds to his distinctive appearance. The peon's beard, which was a common feature among Sinhalese men during this period, is well-groomed and neatly trimmed. The Sinhalese peon was an essential part of the government administrative structure in Sri Lanka during colonial times. They served various roles, including that of an attendant, orderly, office boy, or person kept around for odd jobs. Their duties ranged from carrying messages, making tea, and performing menial tasks to more complex responsibilities such as record keeping and translating. Despite their lowly status, Sinhalese peons played a crucial role in maintaining the functioning of the government machinery. They were often the first point of contact for the public seeking assistance from the government, making their role a significant one in the daily lives of the people. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing valuable insights into the social and cultural fabric of Sri Lanka during the colonial era. The peon's attire, with its mix of traditional and Western influences, is a testament to the syncretic nature of Sri Lankan society. The documents he holds suggest the importance of record keeping and bureaucracy in the functioning of the government. Overall, this photograph is a fascinating representation of a bygone era and a reminder of the rich history and diversity of Sri Lanka.
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