A History of Fine Art in India and Ceylon, from the Earliest Times to the Present Day c7.62

c7.62

It would be easy to extend this introductory essay by the discussion of many topics which have been left unnoticed, but it is better to allow the illustrations in the following chapters to speak for themselves and gradually effect their purpose of eliciting an instructed opinion on the meaning and value of Fine Art in India and Ceylon. During the last few years Indian-born students have become keenly alive to the interest of the ancient political history of the land of their birth, and have proved their capacity for scientific historical research. Perhaps this book may do something to arouse like interest in the story and achievements of Indian art, and may induce my Indian readers to agree with the London artists whose eloquent protest has been quoted, that 'the existence of a distinct, a potent, and a living tradition of art is a priceless possession to the Indian people, and one which they, and all who admire and respect their achievements in this field, ought to guard with the utmost reverence and love'.