The Mogul Architecture of Fatehpur-Sikri (4 Volumes)

Edmund W Smith, Archaeological Survey of India. The Moghul Architecture of Fatehpur-Sikri: Described and Illustrated by Edmund W. Smith, Archaeological Survey, North-Western Provinces and Oudh, Allahabad: Superintendent, Government Press, North West Provinces and Oudh, 1894-98

In 4 Volumes
Volume I: xix, pp. 38,120 plates, some coloured; 1894
Volume II: v, pp. 34,103 plates; 1896
Volume III: x, pp. 60, 91 plates some coloured; 1897
Volume IV: vi, 88 plates, some coloured; 1898

Original boards with fresh spines and leather corners (each)
12 x 10 in (30 x 25 cm) (each)

"The original drawings were prepared 'under the compiler's direction and supervision by Indian draughtsmen, who received preliminary training in various Indian schools of art before entering the Archaeological Department.' These drawings, prepared to illustrate a report of the Archaeological Survey of India entitled 'The Moghul Architecture of Fathpur Sikri', were reproduced in photolithography by Messers W Griggs and Sons, Hanover Street, Peckham, London, in 1897. Edmund W. Smith in his preface to the portfolio, expressed the hope that the drawings' will spread a knowledge of the most interesting period of Indian Architecture' to 'architects, engineers, art students and other's.

The township of Fatehpur Sikri was built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar who ruled between 1556-1605 C.E. It is one of the most exquisite example of architectural design, calligraphy, carving and jali work. Geometrical and floral motifs in all their glory have been etched on the walls of this complex with great delicacy and aesthetic sensibility by the artisans of yore.

The construction of the capital city began around 1570 C.E. Perched on a hillock, the city complex stands self-contained with religious and secular buildings, palaces and courtyards. After sixteen years, however, the city is reported to have been abandoned for a variety of reasons.

The size and speed with which the building project was put into execution required a large group of architects, artisans and craftsmen. Akbar, it is said, brought artists from all parts of his empire, and they gave to Fatehpur Sikri the 'architectural idiom of their region'. The diversity of styles and architectural forms are held together in an overall visual unity by the use of the rich red sandstone that was quarried from the ridge on which the city was built.

Today the city lies deserted. Yet the magnificence of the buildings and sculptured decorations are testimony to the artistic achievements and splendour of Akbar's city". (www.ccrtindia.gov.in, online)

These portfolio's are now largely inaccessible and scarce.

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