Page 115 - Heirloom Collectibles Antiques & Silver

Scenery, Inhabitants, And Costumes,

Of Afghaunistaun

by James Rattray (1818-1854)

This exceptional work by James Rattray, a lieutenant
in the British Bengal Army, offers a vivid and
detailed account of the First Afghan War (1839-
1842), a pivotal campaign in Britain’s efforts to
contain Russian expansion. The book, published
after the war, combines autobiographical text
with skillfully executed illustrations, including
striking portraits of key figures such as Emir Dost
Mohammid and the pro-British Shah Suja, as well as
portraits of native Afghan soldiers and local people.

Rattray’s narrative recounts both the triumphs and the
challenges of an ultimately unsuccessful campaign,
offering firsthand accounts of individual battles,
Afghan cities, customs, and geographic features.

The illustrations provide a rare visual record of the
period, with scenes depicting Kandahar, Kabul,
Lugdulluk, and the destruction of Elphinstone’s forces.

Dedicated to the Kandahar force and its late General
William Nott, under whom Rattray served, the book
reflects the Western fascination with the East,
particularly Islamic culture, architecture, and dress,
that was prevalent during the Victorian era. Despite
its original deluxe publication, designed to appeal to
a popular audience, this work remains a significant
and rare artifact of both military history and 19th-
century Orientalism. A plate from the presented lot Plates from the presented lot