LUDLOW, William Andrew (1803-1853). Bengal Troops on the Line of March. A Panoramic Sketch by an Officer of that Army. London: Day and Haghe, [1835].

LUDLOW, William Andrew (1803-1853). Bengal Troops on the Line of March. A Panoramic Sketch by an Officer of that Army. London: Day and Haghe, [1835].

A rare and large hand-colored panorama depicting the hazards of moving East India Company troops through the subcontinent, from sketches by an officer. Captain Ludlow is listed in the East India Register and Directory as being on furlough from the Twelfth Regiment Bengal Native Infantry in 1835. In the descriptive text accompanying the panorama, he describes putting together the sketches for publication on the long sea voyage home: "This hasty sketch, put together on board Ship, was originally undertaken as much for the purpose of breaking the monotony of a long sea voyage, as to give to a numerous acquaintance at home a better idea of Troops moving in the East, than the Designer could convey in conversation." The British troops are interspersed with figures of local interest: the Hindu priest; native officers; water-carriers, laundry-men; “Cart in which Native Females ride”; “Fakeers denouncing their flying Friends”; and dozens of camels and elephants laden with baggage. When joined, the panorama extends to approximately 28 feet. Abbey Life 530.

Oblong folio (565 x 365mm). Zincographic title (285 x 212 mm), text leaf (518 x 115 mm) and 18 plates (515 x 113 mm and smaller) mounted on six leaves; title and plates finished in hand-color (some minor spotting). Later navy blue half morocco, gilt titling piece on front board.

Pre-Lot Text
PROPERTY OF A PRIVATE COLLECTOR