Part of the Madurai Palace

The Nayaks of Madurai ruled from 1545 until the 1740s, and Tirumala Nayaka (1623–1659) was one of their greatest kings, notable for constructing various buildings in and around Madurai, including the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. Part of the Palace of Madura is a finely detailed aquatint by William Daniell, depicting architectural elements of the historic Madurai palace. A classic example of Orientalist art, this vintage print reflects South India’s royal heritage and colonial-era artistry. Thomas and William Daniell’s ‘Oriental Scenery.’ This view shows one of the vaulted side halls that opens onto the great court in the middle of the complex on the north-east side of the Swarga Vilasa or Celestial Pavilion, the Palace built by Tirumal Nayak in 1636. Part of the Palace of Madura is a finely detailed aquatint by William Daniell, depicting architectural elements of the historic Madurai palace. A classic example of Orientalist art, this vintage print reflects South India’s royal heritage and colonial-era artistry. Art By William Daniell