DANIELL, Thomas and William Daniell

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This magnificent large-format aquatint depicts the dramatic north-western view of Rohtasgarh Fort (then written Rotas Ghur) in Bihar, one of the largest hill forts in India. Perched atop an immense sandstone escarpment overlooking the Son River valley, the fortress had long been celebrated for its commanding natural position and formidable defensive works.

The Daniells chose a viewpoint that emphasises the sheer scale of the fortifications. The massive cliff dominates the composition, while the foreground terraces, gateways and masonry provide depth and perspective. Tiny staffage figures animate the landscape, illustrating the immense proportions of the fort and the surrounding countryside. Smoke rising from the plain and the broad river beyond lend further atmosphere to the expansive panorama.

Rohtasgarh occupies an important place in Indian history. Originally associated with the legendary king Harishchandra according to local tradition, the fort achieved strategic prominence under Sher Shah Suri in the sixteenth century before later passing into Mughal control. By the time Thomas and William Daniell visited, the site had become one of the most impressive ruined hill forts encountered during their extensive travels across northern India.

The plate exemplifies the Daniells’ mastery of aquatint engraving, combining architectural precision with picturesque landscape composition. Their Oriental Scenery profoundly influenced European perceptions of India’s monuments and landscapes and remains among the greatest illustrated travel publications of the eighteenth century.

reff. Thomas Daniell & William Daniell, Oriental Scenery, First Series, London: Thomas Daniell, 1795, Plate XX. Abbey, Travel in Aquatint and Lithography, 423; Tooley, English Books with Coloured Plates; Archer, Early Views of India.