(14 December 2017) On 17 December 1907, Ugyen Wangchuk, the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King), was coronated and the Kingdom of Bhutan has marked this day ever since as its National Day.
The British Library has some photographs of Ugyen Wangchuk when he was crown prince dating from 1905, which were taken by John Claude White, the Political Officer of neighbouring Sikkim. The image of him wearing the traditional Raven Crown and the order of Knight Commander of the Indian Empire is perhaps the most reproduced photograph of the ruler, but it is the one in more relaxed dress and surrounded by his family, that has, more appeal.
To mark this anniversary, enjoy the photographs and the story of the conserved manuscripts, here.
