'Theodore's Tomb', Magdala, Abyssinia, 1868

Photograph, Abyssinia, 1868.

The primary objective of the expedition to Abyssinia (1867-1868) was to secure the release of British hostages held by Emperor Tewodros II (or King Theodore) of Abyssinia. The expeditionary force advanced over 600 km of difficult country to the capital, Magdala, near to which the decisive action was fought.

British soldiers with their rifles close at hand, positioned outside an Abyssinian church at Magdala. An Army photographic team, attached to the 10th Company, Royal Engineers, led by Sergeant John Harrold, accompanied the British force that took the Abyssinian fortress of Magdala in April 1868.