This coloured postcard depicts Istana Tyersall, the palatial residence of Sultan Abu Bakar of Johor in early 20th century Singapore. The palace, located adjacent to the Botanic Gardens, spanned 67 acres of garden. Originally owned by William Napier, a prominent solicitor and one of the founders of the Singapore Free Press, the land was later acquired by the Sultan of Johor. He had the palace built in place of Napier’s former house and expanded the gardens. Completed in 1892, Istana Tyersall suffered significant damage in a fire in 1905.
