An Ancient Hindoo Temple, in the Fort of Rotas, Bahar [sic]
January 1796
Colour aquatint on paper
Sheet Size: 18.5 x 24.25 in (47.3 x 61.5 cm)
With Mount: 25 x 30.25 in (63.5 x 77 cm)
Plate 11 from Part 1 of Thomas and William Daniell's Oriental Scenery. Twenty-Four Views in Hindoostan Drawn and Engraved by Thomas Daniell, And With Permission Respectfully Dedicated to the Honourable Court of Directors of the East India Company, London: R Bowyer, 1795-1797.
The historic fort of Rohtasgarh, situated in the Kaimur Hills of Bihar, was constructed by Harish Chandra of the Solar dynasty. In 1539, it fell into the hands of Emperor Sher Shah Suri, subsequently coming under the control of Raja Man Singh, the Hindu governor of Bengal and Bihar during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
Archer quotes a description by Thomas Daniell: "This building, composed of grey granite, is of singular construction, and has the appearance of great antiquity. The Hindoos, who formerly preferred elevated places for their temples, could not, it would seem, resist the temptation of building in this place, the situation being delightful, and water and wood, with every other convenience, abundant"
Thomas Daniell drew inspiration for his monument to Warren Hastings in Melchet Park, Wiltshire, from the porch dating back to 1800. Warren Hastings (1732-1818) served as the Governor-General of India and was also the patron of William Hodges, an artist who journeyed to India prior to the Daniells.
Thomas Daniell (1749–1840)
Thomas Daniell was an acclaimed English artist known for his striking landscapes and architectural views, particularly those depicting India. Born in Kingston upon Thames, England, Daniell initially trained as a herald painter before enrolling at the Royal Academy in 1773. Seeking greater opportunities, he journeyed to India in 1786 with his nephew, William Daniell, under the patronage of the East India Company. People celebrate their work from this period for capturing the grandeur and diversity of India's landscapes, architecture, and cultural heritage.
One of Daniell's most famous accomplishments is the monumental series Oriental Scenery (1795–1808), a collection of aquatints showcasing 144 detailed views of Indian sites, including ancient temples, fortresses, and urban vistas. These works were instrumental in shaping Western perceptions of India during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Daniell's works often combined artistic skill with careful observation, emphasizing both picturesque beauty and architectural accuracy. His detailed depictions of sites such as the Ellora caves and iconic views of cities like Delhi and Varanasi were highly influential in both artistic and academic circles.
In addition to his work on India, Daniell collaborated on other projects, including Views of Egypt and A Picturesque Voyage to China. His artistic achievements earned him recognition, and he became a full member of the Royal Academy in 1799. Daniell retired in 1837 and passed away in 1840 at the age of 91.
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