HENRY SALT (AFTER). EXCAVATIONS AT CARLI, INDIA, WATERCOLOUR. [C.1804]

WATERCOLOUR on paper (visible image 310 x465mm.), framed and glazed

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This watercolour is based on Henry Salt's illustration published in his Twenty Four Views in St. Helena, the Cape, India, Ceylon, the Red Sea, Abyssinia and Egypt (1809, plate 14). The image depicts the great Buddhist Chaitya (hall of worship) at Karli (Karle). "Dating from some time between the second century BC and the first century AD, the Karli caves are in the Poona district of Maharashtra, and this chaitya is the largest rock-cut cave in India. Explorer and earl, George Annesley described the carvings and entrance screens as greatly damaged by human hand, but was much impressed by the grandeur of the huge arched roof. The cave is also distinguished by the entrance pillar, which is 24 feet high and eight feet in diameter, with a summit carving of four lions" (British Library).