Anglo Indian

The anglo-Indian decorative art of the 18th and 19th centuries was a unique blend of Indian and British styles. This period saw a flourishing of artistic exchange and cultural blending between the two cultures as a result of British colonisation of India.

The Anglo-Indian style combined elements of traditional Indian design with European decorative motifs, resulting in a distinctive aesthetic that was both exotic and familiar. British colonial officials and traders often commissioned local Indian artisans to create decorative objects and furniture that incorporated Indian materials, techniques, and designs, but also reflected European tastes and styles.

For example, in furniture, the Anglo-Indian style was characterized by the use of local woods such as teak, ebony, and rosewood, but also by the incorporation of British furniture design features such as cabriole legs, pierced and carved backs, and upholstered seats. The use of inlaid or carved mother-of-pearl and ivory was also a popular decorative element in Anglo-Indian furniture.

The Anglo-Indian decorative arts were not limited to furniture. Other decorative objects such as textiles, ceramics, silverware, and jewelry also reflected this fusion of Indian and European styles. This blending of cultural influences resulted in a unique and highly prized style that remains popular among collectors and enthusiasts of decorative arts today.

Influence of the East India Company

The East India Company had a significant impact on Anglo-Indian designs. The company, founded in 1600, was established to trade with the East Indies, including India. The company’s presence in India and its role in governing parts of the country from the mid-18th century onwards had a profound impact on the country’s artistic and cultural landscape.

One of the major contributions of the East India Company to Anglo-Indian design was the introduction of new materials and techniques. The company’s traders and officials brought back exotic materials such as ivory, sandalwood, ebony, satinwood, and lacquer, which were used in the production of decorative objects and furniture. The company also introduced new techniques, such as the use of inlay and marquetry, which were incorporated into traditional Indian crafts.

Another significant contribution of the East India Company was the establishment of a market for Anglo-Indian goods. The company’s officials and merchants commissioned Indian artisans to create objects and furniture that were tailored to European tastes and styles, resulting in the unique fusion of Indian and European design elements that characterises the Anglo-Indian style.

The company’s presence in India also facilitated the exchange of ideas and cultural influences between Indian and European artisans, resulting in the development of new styles and techniques that blended the best of both worlds.

Overall, the East India Company had a profound impact on the development of Anglo-Indian design, contributing new materials, techniques, and markets, and facilitating the exchange of ideas and cultural influences between India and Europe.