India collection temporary exhibits

Indian artworks on show for 2013

Each year the gallery features a different temporary exhibition on display in 4 specially renovated original Waterhouse cabinets.

This year we are featuring paintings from our India collection and work from contemporary artist Sunoj D.

Jewel beetle, Chrysochroa ocellata.

Historical works

The paintings on show are selected from our 18th and 19th-century India collection of artworks. The drawings are mostly watercolours and date from the British East India Company's presence in the country. The images document the diversity of Indian plants and animals at that time. They originate from a variety of sources, including individual artists and collectors, as well as organised studies of Indian natural history in the pursuit of science, commerce and politics.

These pictures are too delicate for permanent display so will change every 3 months, giving visitors the chance to see about 120 paintings over the year.

Modern Indian work on show

On display alongside the India collection are artworks by contemporary Indian artist Sunoj D, made in response to the Museum’s India collection. They feature in the gallery space for the year.

The first rotation of Indian images and contemporary artwork is on show in the gallery until the end of May 2013.

Browse the gallery highlights slideshow

Explore the India collection online

Talks at the Museum

Don't miss our season of regular talks about the new India collection and contemporary artwork. Details below.

Related talks

Images of Nature: The Art of India

19 June 2013 14:30 - 15:00

Join us to find out about the scientific, commercial and political stories hidden within this collection of Indian art.