Page 48 - Heirloom Collectibles Antiques & Silver

A Brief History of Ancient And

Modern India

by Francis William Blagdon (1778-1819)

A plate from the presented lot

This significant work merges historical narrative with of Tipu Sultan, picturesque views of daily life and
visual depictions of India during the early 19th century. significant sites. These visually rich elements catered to
Published in 1805, it provides an insight into political, the curiosity of its time. It combined scholarly analysis
military, and commercial history, focusing on key events with artistic depictions.
such as the Maratha Wars. These illustrations, crafted by
celebrated artists such as William Daniell, James Hunter, Francis William Blagdon was an English artist, engraver,
and Francis Swain Ward, depict Indian landscapes, and writer, primarily known for his contributions to
architectural marvels, and cultural scenes. the early 19th-century British art scene. Blagdon’s
work spans several disciplines, including portraiture,
The text spans from ancient to modern periods, as landscape art, and topographical views. Plates from the presented lot
perceived in the colonial era, offering insights tailored to a
European audience keen on understanding British India. He is perhaps best known for his interest in Indian
While the narrative highlights India’s rich heritage, it is culture and its depiction in Western art. He travelled
framed through the colonial perspective, emphasising to India and created a number of topographical works,
British engagements and accomplishments. blending his interest in British colonial subjects with
With its 66 hand-coloured aquatint plates, the book his artistic talents. His illustrations and engravings from
complements the striking visual representations with India reflect a fascination with the landscapes and
textual content. Among the plates is a notable portrait architectural features of the time.