Lot Essay
The Daniells were mistaken about the identification of the building shown here: the engraved title on the aquatint version (Oriental Scenery, vol.III, no.6, published 1 December 1801) describes it as 'The Mausoleum of Amir Khusero'; in fact, it is a building known as the Chaunsath Khamba. A pavilion of sixty-four columns (and hence its name), it contains a number of assorted graves. It was built in 1623, perhaps originally as a hall or resting place and later converted into a burial site. The Daniells observed accurately that it is 'built of white marble, finely polished and finished with the utmost delicacy; particularly the lattice work, which is introduced on each side of it' (Oriental Scenery). This lattice work is in a Gujarati style, but otherwise the pavilion is typical of the imperial architecture of Jahangir. The 14th Century poet Amir Khusrau is buried in the compound of the dargah of the saint Shaikh Nizamu'd-Din Auliya, whose disciple he was. The Chaunsath Khamba is nearby (though not in the same compound), in the district of Delhi which is still known as Nizamuddin. According to William's journal, the Daniells visited the area on 16 February 1789, their first day in Delhi. It is perhaps remarkable that the Daniells were not more often misled about the buildings they drew: having no authoritative reference book, they had to rely on local residents for information about a building's history.
In the foreground, an Indian dignitary has emerged from the tomb and is returning to his palanquin and waiting bearers (compare the European box palanquin depicted in lot 51).
In the foreground, an Indian dignitary has emerged from the tomb and is returning to his palanquin and waiting bearers (compare the European box palanquin depicted in lot 51).