Lot Essay
At the end of their southern tour, the Daniells returned to Madras for the winter of 1792-93. During this period they made several views of the city, to complement their earlier studies of Calcutta (lot 2). Six views of Madras were included in Oriental Scenery, Volume 2, nos. 7-12. This drawing relates to number 11 (published in September 1798).
'The Race Ground is between seven and eight miles from Madras, and near to St Thomas's Mount, which, in this view, appears on the right of the Assembly Rooms. The races are supported by English gentlemen resident in Madras, and its neighbourhood. This amusement takes place in the cool season, when the ladies of the settlement are invited to a splendid ball' (Oriental Scenery).
St Thomas's Mount lies to the south-west of the city, beyond the Adyar River. Nearby was the old British military cantonment, and there is still a race-course there today.
'The Race Ground is between seven and eight miles from Madras, and near to St Thomas's Mount, which, in this view, appears on the right of the Assembly Rooms. The races are supported by English gentlemen resident in Madras, and its neighbourhood. This amusement takes place in the cool season, when the ladies of the settlement are invited to a splendid ball' (Oriental Scenery).
St Thomas's Mount lies to the south-west of the city, beyond the Adyar River. Nearby was the old British military cantonment, and there is still a race-course there today.