1793 -The Forts of Sewandroog and Ootra-Durgum

Twelve Views of Places in the Kingdom of Mysore the Country of the Tippoo Sultan - 1793

Sewandroog and Ootra-Durgam aquatints, printed in color and finished by hand!

Two scenic views of the kingdom of Mysore, from drawings made on site by British military surveyor Robert Hyde Colebrooke (1762-1808) during the late 18th century.

In each view, a topography of steep hills rises from flat plain, featuring fortresses with protective walls.

South View of Sewandroog:

 

Detail of the South View

This view includes a body of water, where villagers draw water, against a backdrop of steep and striking rock formations. 

 

South West View of Ootra-Durgum

 

 

Detail of the South West View

 

This view shows a terraced hillside with a small village at the base, and villagers walking across the field.

 

Background of these drawings:

 

The peaceful views presented above belies the context in which they were produced: according to scholar Mary A. Fevret, the intended audience were members of the military and the East India Company following "the successful conclusion of three years of intense fighting in the Third Mysore War, where Tipu Sultan was forced to yield parts of the region and several forts, along with a large remuneration, to the East India Company.

 

Information on the above plates:

 

Sewandroog: Drawn on the spot by Robert Hyde Colebrooke, London: Published April 1, 1793, for the proprietor, by Mr. Thomson, No. 22, Great Marylebone Street, London

 

Ootra-Durgum: Drawn on the spot by Robert Hyde Colebrooke, London: Published July 1, 1793, for the proprietor, by Mr. Thomson, No. 22, Great Marylebone Street, London

 

Etched By: John William Edy (1780-1820)

 

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