DANIELL, Thomas and William Daniell

This impression comes from the 1816 collected edition of the celebrated Oriental Scenery, one of the most important illustrated works on the architecture and antiquities of India. The plate was originally engraved for the Ellora series and later incorporated into the complete folio edition issued in 1816.

The plate depicts the impressive courtyard and pillared façade of the monument historically known as Jagan’natha Sabha, now generally identified as the Indra Sabha (Cave 32), the finest of the Jain cave temples at Ellora. Massive sculptured pillars, richly carved capitals, elephant guardians, rock-cut bridges, and multi-storeyed façades are rendered with remarkable architectural precision while preserving the romantic atmosphere that characterises the Daniells’ work.

The Ellora views published in Oriental Scenery were among the earliest accurate visual records of these extraordinary cave temples available to European audiences. Combining archaeological observation with artistic refinement, the Daniells produced images that remain among the most celebrated topographical prints of India.

Today, these aquatints are regarded as masterpieces of British Orientalist printmaking and are prized for both their historical importance and exceptional artistic quality.

reff.

Abbey, J.R., Travel in Aquatint and Lithography 1770–1860, Abbey Travel 420; Sutton, Thomas, The Daniells: Artists and Travellers (1954); Archer, Mildred, Early Views of India; Daniell, Thomas & William, Oriental Scenery (London, 1795–1808).