Book review: In Pursuit of Empire

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11 August 2019
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In you’re interested in Asian art, specifically that of the Sikh Empire from the 15th century onwards, then there’s a spectacular treat in store with this magnificent book.

Author: Davinder Toor

Reviewed by: Duncan Evans

Editor’s Choice

 

Buy your copy here.

 

In you’re interested in Asian art, specifically that of the Sikh Empire from the 15th century onwards, then there’s a spectacular treat in store with this magnificent book. It’s a look at the influence, art and treasures of the Sikhs, as viewed through the Toor Collection, with the book itself written by owner, Davinder Toor. An introduction by Wiliam Dalrymple sets the historic scene and then you can dive into a quite incredible and leisurely look at paintings, objects, firearms and, when we get to the Victorian age, photographs. The production standards for this book are beyond impressive. It’s presented in a large, square format, with pages thicker and more glossy than pretty much anything I’ve ever seen. It’s essentially a coffee table book, but rich with historical detail. Quite how the publisher can afford to sell this for just shy of £35 is a mystery. If you’re interested in art from the East then treat yourself with a copy of it immediately.

 

• Kashi House

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• ISBN 978-0-9112-7103-1

 

• 320 pages • Hardback • £34.99

 

 

As reviewed in The Armourer July 2019

 

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