View of the Ghats at Benaras, William Daniell, Oil on Canvas, 138.5x196 cms.

Thomas Daniell, born in 1749 was an English landscape painter. After his apprenticeship with British painters and academic studies at the Royal Academy Schools, he was drawn towards India for his creative journey. William Daniell, the nephew of Thomas Daniell was born in 1769. He was also an English landscape painter and engraver. After his father’s premature demise in 1779, William Daniell was sent to live with his uncle, Thomas Daniell in England. In 1786, he accompanied Thomas to India to document various aspects of the British colony. Both of them visited Benaras in 1788 and 1789. While assisting his uncle, William Daniell, extensively documented the Far East which resulted in an illustrated volume titled, Oriental Scenery. William made several sketches of Manikarnika Ghat of Benaras enamoured by its resplendent charm. This painting was formerly in the collection of Late Marquess Curzon of Kedleston and later purchased on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen at Christie’s in 1931. The expansive Manikarnika Ghats on the right side contours towards Lalita Ghats on the left in this composition maintaining balance. The Jalsain burning Ghat in the centre divides the composition and is indicated by a dark tower. The architectural elements have the distant sky as background and expansive Ganga in its foreground. Lush green spiraling trees contour towards the distant background. Several fi gures are seen offering prayers in the holy waters. As one of the signifi cant works of art of Company period, this painting contributes to the nostalgic imagery of India.

Portfolio Name: Company Paintings in Rashtrapati Bhawan
Source: Lalit Kala Akademi