The Upper Reach (Benares) (Primary Title)
Fourth Indian Set (Set Title)
Ernest Stephen Lumsden, English, 1883–1948 (Artist)
Ernest Stephen Lumsden, English, 1883–1948 (Printer)
Masterfully rendered, this picturesque view shows boats anchored near a bend in the Ganges, likely near Assi Ghat. Chosen for inclusion in the annual Fine Prints of the Year for 1929, this etching demonstrates well Lumsden’s artistic refinement over more than fifteen years spent depicting Benares. Compared to 1914’s The Temple Flag—almost exactly the same composition—Lumsden has moved from the gestural and spontaneous to a far more deliberate delineation. Whereas the earlier plate was printed in its original state—its lines likely drawn directly on the plate in the field—this tour de force underwent seven revisions before its release.
ed. 63
Signed in ink "Lumsden imp" at bottom center along plate line; also "62 63" in ink along plate line.
Following information inscribed in graphite by unknown hand(s) on recto: Title, Artist and "Fine Print of the Year 1929"
Gift of Frank Raysor
Light and Line: E. S. Lumsden's Visions of India, VMFA South Asian Galleries, April 11, 2016 - April 4, 2017
©artist or artist’s estate
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