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Title (Original): A Plan of Bombay Harbour, principally Illustrative of the Entrance Constructed from measured Bases, and a Series of Angles, taken in 1803 & 4.

James Horsburgh (1762-1836) was a Scottish hydrographer whose 'India Directory' revolutionized maritime navigation in the Indian Ocean & beyond for over half a century. Explore his legacy and influence on cartography.

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Total Price

$ 263

reproduction

Title (Original): A Plan of Bombay Harbour, principally Illustrative of the Entrance Constructed from measured Bases, and a Series of Angles, taken in 1803 & 4.

Reproduction Medium

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Total Price

$ 263

This fantastically detailed and accurate sea chart represents the first truly scientific maritime map of Bombay Harbour. Taken from a westward perspective, the many shoals, rocks and maritime hazards, as well as navigational aids are clearly marked, while innumerable bathymetric soundings quantify the sea floor. The fort and town of Bombay occupy the southern tip of the island to the centre-right of the chart, while a fine profile view can be seen above. While Bombay possessed an excellent natural harbour and was India’s busiest port, its entrance was considered treacherous. While previous charts were useful, Horsburgh’s was the first that, if correctly followed, would guarantee safe passage. James Horsburgh was a Scottish sea chart maker who played a revolutionary role in the scientific mapping of the coastal waters of India and Southeast Asia. He spent 27 years sailing about Asia, often based out of Bombay. In 1786 Horsburgh was shipwrecked on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, due to the errors on the best available sea charts. This traumatic experience inspired him to dedicate the rest of his life to the accurate mapping of Asian waters. Horsburgh realized that the best available chart of the Bombay Harbour, an updated version of William Nicholson’s 1763 chart, was not sufficiently detailed. In 1803-4, Horsburgh used the most advanced equipment and techniques of triangulated surveying to precisely map the entrance to Bombay Harbour. The resulting chart, printed in 1806, prevented innumerable accidents, saving countless ships and lives. In 1805 Horsburgh moved to London where he became a leading sea chart publisher. His charts helped to set the new ‘gold standard’ for the mapping of Indian and Asian waters. In 1810, he was appointed as the official Hydrographer of East India Company, a post he held for the next 26 years.

Artist Biography

early life and contributions

james horsburgh f.r.s, a scottish hydrographer, was born in elie, fife, united kingdom in 1762. his life's work would significantly impact the world of navigation and cartography. horsburgh worked for the british east india company, meticulously mapping seaways in the indian ocean, the malay archipelago, and china during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

notable achievements

- **the india directory**: james horsburgh f.r.s's most notable contribution is the "india directory," a comprehensive set of sailing directions. this work became a standard reference for over half a century, guiding numerous mariners and explorers through the complex waters of the indian ocean and beyond.

artistic legacy in the ArtsDot collection

while james horsburgh f.r.s's primary legacy is in hydrography, his influence on maritime art is also notable. unfortunately, no paintings by james horsburgh are currently featured in the ArtsDot collection. however, to appreciate the era's artistic vibe, consider exploring works from similar periods: - ito jakuchu: bean vine (125.7cm x 47.9cm, paper), showcasing a different artist's approach to capturing the essence of nature. - pablo picasso: bust of a woman 4 (cubism, engraving), offering a glimpse into the cubist movement that would later influence maritime art.

museums and collections

- **wick town hall**: though not directly associated with james horsburgh f.r.s, this scottish museum features artworks from various periods, including those influenced by hydrographic advancements. - **national records of scotland**: this edinburgh-based institution holds a vast collection of historical records and documents, indirectly reflecting the impact of james horsburgh f.r.s's work on navigation and cartography.
  • for more on scottish art and its maritime influences, explore ArtsDot's collection through the wilberforce house museum and other featured museums.
  • delve into the world of hydrography and its artistic reflections in the archaic art movement, though not directly related, it offers insights into early art movements.
conclusion: james horsburgh f.r.s's legacy in hydrography is undeniable. while his direct artistic contributions may not be extensively showcased in the ArtsDot collection, his influence on maritime and navigation arts is a testament to his enduring impact on the world of art and beyond.
james horsburgh f.r.s

james horsburgh f.r.s

1762 - 1836 , United Kingdom

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