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Thomas Holbein Hendley and Fred H Andrews, The Journal of Indian Art: Indian Carpets and Rugs, Volume XI, Nos. 89-94, London: W. Griggs & Sons, April 1906

10 pages, 82 black and white and 18 colour chromolithographic plates; contemporary half maroon morocco over dark red pebble-grain cloth-covered boards; gilt title at the spine; marbled edges
14.5 x 11 x 1 in (37.5 x 28 x 2.5 cm)

A RARE AND SUMPTUOUSLY ILLUSTRATED COMPILATION SHOWCASING THE RICH TAPESTRY OF INDIAN CARPET DESIGN

The Journal of Indian Art and Industry (1884-1916) is the most important and considered a significant resource containing numerous pioneering studies. It was founded in 1884 by the art historian and curator John Forbes Watson, who also served as the editor of the journal. The journal was published quarterly and continued until 1893 and then biannually until 1901.

The journal aimed to promote and disseminate knowledge about Indian art and crafts. It contained articles, reviews, and illustrations covering various aspects of Indian art, architecture, archaeology, sculpture, painting, textiles, metalwork, and contemporary crafts. Each volume is filled with breathtaking chromolithographs and black-and-white plates, many of which are double-page plates.

According to an essay by Peter H. Hoffenberg titled "John Lockwood Kipling, W. H. Griggs and The Journal of Indian Art and Industry": "Kipling's and Buck's vision encouraged the use of the latest photographic and reproductive innovations to ensure accurate and attractive illustrations of lasting quality. Griggs and his editorial staff took advantage of that encouragement and of the most current technology to produce exquisite colour chromo- and photo-lithographs. The Journal also included illustrations resulting from innovative work in the heliogravure and collotype sections of India's own Revenue and Agriculture Department, particularly the offices devoted to the Survey of India.”

The Journal of Indian Art and Industry played an important role in the development of Indian art scholarship in the late 19th century. It provided a forum for scholars and experts to share their knowledge and ideas and helped to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Indian art and crafts among a wider audience. The journal also served as a record of the state of Indian art and industry during a time of significant change and transition, as traditional crafts and techniques began to be impacted by the influence of colonialism and modernisation.

Today, the Journal of Indian Art and Industry remains an important resource for scholars and researchers interested in the history and study of Indian art and crafts. Many of the articles and illustrations that appeared in the journal are still cited and referenced in academic publications and exhibitions.

The Journal of Indian Art and Industry ceased publication in 1916, after over 30 years of being in print. However, its legacy lives on, as it played an important role in the promotion and preservation of Indian art and crafts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This eleventh volume was a special volume devoted to Journal of Indian Art and it stands as a testament to the intricate artistry and regional diversity of Indian carpet weaving traditions.

The 100 plates, executed in high-quality chromolithography by William Griggs—a pioneer in the field—capture the vivid colours, complex patterns, and symbolic motifs characteristic of carpets from regions such as Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and the Deccan. The accompanying texts provide insights into the cultural and historical contexts of each design, reflecting the confluence of indigenous and Persian influences that define Indian carpet aesthetics.

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