Ensign James Blunt
Cuttub Minar in April 1794
Original 18th c. Engraving with book chapter (see details below)
Estimated date of printing: between 1794-1799
Plate: 26.5 x 19.5 cms / 10.5 x 7.6” app. & 4 additional pages of same size, printed recto-verso
Non-exportable antiquity. Cannot be exported out of India.
(The work will be shipped without a frame. Framing is available on request.)
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This historical illustration depicts a detailed architectural view and engineering study of the Qutab Minar, Delhi. The original sketch is likely made by Ensign James Blunt in April 1794 and this (possibly engraving) print may have been published between 1795-1799. The plate is accompanied by the book chapter on the Qutab, “A description of the Cuttub Minar”, making it even more precious.
This was published in Asiatick Researches; or, Transactions of the Society, Instituted in Bengal, for Inquiring into the History and Antiquities, the Arts, Sciences, and Literature, of Asia. Vol. 4. Calcutta: Printed by the Press, 1795. It was later published in London, in 1799. It is hard to ascertain the exact edition from which this plate and chapter, has been extracted, as several editions exist with variations.
Ground Plan: The circular insert at the top right represents a precise ground plan mapping out the alternating angular and semicircular fluting pattern that characteristically details the tower's lowest level.
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Condition Report: In good condition overall: no major damage or tears. Some foxing, as clearly visible in the images.