Southern India Painted by Lady Lawley. Described by F E Penny

F E Penny, Southern India Painted by Lady Lawley. Described by F E Penny, London: Adam and Charles Black, 1914

xi, 257 pages including 50 colour chromolithographic plates from the paintings of Lady Lawley and 1 black and white map; original publishers' cloth binding with uncut edges
8.8 x 6 in (22 x 16 cm)

Through the pages of Southern India, a captivating blend of exquisite artwork and vibrant narrative, enter the enchanting world of early 20th-century Southern India. This 1914 publication, which was written by Fanny Emily Penny and gorgeously illustrated by Lady Annie Lawley, provides an immersive experience of the region's landscapes, architecture, and cultural tapestry.

F E Penny, a seasoned writer with extensive experience of life in India, creates a captivating depiction of the social customs, traditions, and historical landmarks of Southern India. The grandeur of temple towns, the bustle of vibrant marketplaces, and the tranquil beauty of the countryside are vividly depicted in her prose, which is richly descriptive. Penny's observations capture the majesty and everyday realities of Indian life, from the regal courts of Mysore to the ancient rock-cut temples of Mahabalipuram.

Lady Lawley was the wife of Sir Arthur Lawley, the former Governor of Madras, who lived in Southern India for over six years and who had close ties with the Maharaja of Mysore. She has created 50 breathtaking watercolour plates to accompany Penny's remarks. Lady Lawley's paintings are a reflection of her intimate and appreciative perspective on the local landscapes and people, which she has developed over the course of many years of living in the area. Intricate temple carvings, verdant tropical scenery, the grandeur of colonial-era Madras, and the resplendent saris of South Indian women are all exemplified by her artistry, rendering the book a visual masterpiece as well as a literary one.

Southern India, is more than a travelogue; it is a cultural artifact that provides readers with a glimpse into a bygone era of Indian history. This book is a collector's treasure, with its fold-out sketch map, gilded lettering, and richly decorated cloth binding, which appeals to enthusiasts of travel literature, history, and art.

NON-EXPORTABLE

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