Before you read further, have a good look at the painting on the first page of this chapter. Class 8

Before you read further, have a good look at the painting on the first page of this chapter. Class 8

Before you read further, have a good look at the painting on the first page of this chapter. It was specially ordered for the London headquarters of the East India Company and is over three metres long. Observe every aspect of it-the people in it, the objects, the symbols and the attitudes. Form groups of four or five students and let each group present its conclusions as regards the messages the painting conveys. (You will find our answers a few pages down, when we return to the painting, but avoid looking at them right now!) (Page 92) Class 8

Answer:

This painting shows the following aspects:

1. Britain as Powerful and Supreme: At the top, a white woman, Britannia, is seated, dressed like a goddess, representing Britain. She looks calm and confident, showing that Britain is powerful and in control.
2. India Offering Wealth: India is shown as a land full of riches. Dark-skinned figures (likely Indians) are bowing and offering pearls, jewels, and cotton to the British. This shows India as a supplier of valuable goods.
3. China's Role: A figure from China is also offering a precious jar, suggesting that China. too, is contributing wealth to Britain.
4. Animals and Trade: Exotic animals from India are shown, and a man with a winged helmet (symbol of commerce and travel) holds a staff, symbolizing Britain's global trade power.
5. The East India Company's Naval Power: In the foreground, a powerful man with a trident represents the sea and naval strength, showing how the British controlled the seas and trade routes.
6. 'Old Father Thames': The man in the bottom left symbolizes the River Thames and London, indicating that all the wealth from India and China is being brought to Britain.

Conclusion: According to the painting conveys one common message that Britain, especially through the East India Company, was a powerful, god-like force that ruled over the wealth of India and other countries, using naval power, commerce, and controlled the colonies. It also showed that the colonies were places that existed to serve Britain by giving it their riches.