3 Review(s)

“This little book is not intended for a history or archaeological study, but to assist those who visit, or have visited, Agra, to an intelligent understanding of one of the greatest epochs of Indian Art…India is the only part of the erstwhile British Empire where art is still a living reality, a portion of the people’s spiritual possessions. We, in our ignorance and affectation of superiority, make efforts to improve it with western ideas; but, so far, have only succeeded in doing it incalculable harm. It would be wiser if we would first attempt to understand it.” First published in 1904, this book attempts to do just that. A fascinating journey through time, it takes you back to the era of the Great Moghul. As you step around the still grand edifices, steeped in history, Akbar and Shah Jahan will be watching you, visions of the finely dressed women of the harem will thrill your senses, and the perfumes and aromatic incense of the bazaars will whisk you away to another world. More than a simple handbook, this is history brought to life in a totally enthralling way.