Thomas Daniell, R.A. (1749-1840) and William Daniell, R.A. (1769-1837)

Dasasvamedha Ghat, Benares [Varanasi], Uttar Pradesh

Details
Thomas Daniell, R.A. (1749-1840) and William Daniell, R.A. (1769-1837)
Dasasvamedha Ghat, Benares [Varanasi], Uttar Pradesh
inscribed and numbered 'DUSASUMADE GHAUT/Benares (on the artists' original mount) and further inscribed 'N.52. Dusasumade Gaut-/Benares.' (on the reverse of the artists' original mount, overmounted)
pencil and watercolour, within a black-lined border, on the artists' original mount
14¾ x 21¼in. (37.4 x 53.9cm.)
Exhibited
Commonwealth Institute, 1960, no.21.
Smithsonian Institution, 1962, no.9.
Spink, 1974, no.41.
Engraved
T. Daniell, aquatint engraving, May 1796, for Oriental Scenery, vol.I, no.16.

Lot Essay

Dasasvamedha Ghat, which marks the place of Brahma's sacrifice of ten horses, is one of the most frequented bathing ghats in Benares. The Daniells sailed through the city on 4 December 1788; they returned for a longer stay on their return voyage a year later (November - December 1789). Most of their views of Benares are usually dated to the later visit, but it is perhaps significant that on the earlier occasion William noted: 'The general view of Benares from the Pinnace was so very grand that I staid on Board the whole day to draw it, fearing if we let slip the present opportunity that we might never see it in a better point of View' (Journal).

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