Between 1812 and 1816, a lavish six-part compendium with illustrations of Mughal and Dravidian monuments, cityscapes and landscapes — the most extensive work of its kind — held its readers in awe.
Between 1812 and 1816, a lavish six-part compendium with illustrations of Mughal and Dravidian monuments, cityscapes and landscapes — the most extensive work of its kind — held its readers in awe. The aquatint illustrations (a printing technique) were so accurately and skilfully made, that they put to shame all those who had previously attempted similar illustrations. Touted as “the finest illustrated work ever published on India,” Oriental Scenery was a landmark compendium of illustrations by Thomas and William Daniell, two of the most celebrated landscape artists of their time. The work is now in StoryLTD’s ongoing Antiquarian Books auction.
“The Antiquarian Books auction features 51 lots ranging from the 1700s to the early 20th century on themes including, but not limited to, the British Raj and the Indian sub-continent. Many of these books are illustrated with lavish aquatints and chromolithographs of flora, fauna, people, and places. The auction is an excellent opportunity for any bibliophile, collector or history enthusiast to build their personal collection of rare books,” says a insider from the StoryLTD team on condition of anonymity.
Some of the rare books include Portraits of the Princes and People of Eden, which was published in 1844. It was one of English poet and novelist Emily Eden’s important works. She documented the lives of Indian rulers and their families when she accompanied her brother, Lord Auckland, to India when he was Governor General from 1835 – 1842. The book is bound in an original contemporary half Moroccan and cloth cover, and features a rich gilt lettering on the cover and spine. It is estimated between '9.5 - 10 lakhs (USD 14,395 - 15,155).
Among other prized possessions the auction will have lithographic plates of the landscapes of British India, with a focus on Kashmir, Punjab, Calcutta and Ahmedabad.
The auction closes today. For more information log onto storyltd.com Viewings: On August 17, 11 am to 7 pm, Saffronart, Industry Manor, 3rd Floor Appasaheb Marathe Marg, Prabhadevi
