Benares was painted by Robert Captain Smith in 1830.

Where can I see Benares?

Benares is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Benares?

Benares is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Benares?

Museum-quality prints of Benares are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Benares

Robert Captain Smith , 1830

Benares is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Robert Captain Smith. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Benares is a pencil drawing depicting the Indian city of Varanasi as seen from the river. It is one of 65 illustrations from a travel journal kept by Captain Robert Smith during his voyages along the Ganges between 1828 and 1833.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures the bustling riverside city, with numerous small buildings, spires, and boats of various sizes. Tiny figures are shown walking along the riverbank and near the water's edge, conveying a sense of daily life and activity.

Technique & Style

The artist rendered the scene in pencil, focusing on the details of the city's architecture and the movement of people and boats. The level of detail suggests an interest in documenting the everyday life of the city's inhabitants.

History & Provenance

The drawing was completed in 1845 and later donated to a collection in 1915. It is part of a larger travel journal that documents Captain Smith's voyages along the Ganges and visits to other Indian cities.