Many thousands of British soldiers – and, in some cases, their wives – sailed out to India in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the era before photography, many sent back drawings and paintings intended for private consumption. These now offer us a vivid insight into various aspects of their lives, sometimes unglamorous, often amusing. We see their journey out, their social activities, their bungalows, gardens and hill stations; also their cuisine, their recreations, life on the march, and their means of coping with heat, insects and other maladies… 

Lecturer: Patrick Connor MA  DPhil

1970-71 Teacher at Marlborough College. 1975-86 Keeper of Fine Art at the Royal Pavilion, Art Gallery & Museums, Brighton. Since 1986 Director of the Martyn Gregory Gallery, London. Author of several books including Savage Ruskin, Oriental Architecture in the West and George Chinnery, artist of India and the China Coast.