Aurangzeb's Mosque at Benares

This picture was painted by Robert Smith circa 1830. All parts of the empire, especially India, became the setting for the work of amateur artists. For some, sketching and painting were simply a recreation. Others had a more direct professional interest. Army officers had to study the lie of the land, often making maps and sketches. Revenue officers, surveyors, and engineers also had to record land, people, and projects. Colonel Robert Smith was the finest artist among the Indian engineers.

Art | Art and Empire | Portraying India | Portraying India Gallery