Thoroughly Modern Court
Courtesy London’s School of Oriental and African Studies
The Empire of the Sikhs exhibition in London highlights Punjabi history with a special focus on Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Upon entering the foyer of the recently concluded
Empire of the Sikhs exhibition at the Brunei Gallery, London’s School of Oriental and African Studies, spectators are immediately confronted by a formidably large howitzer from the artillery arm of Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839). Over 6 meters in length, the dramatically gleaming brass, mother of pearl, and dark teak wood of the howitzer represents the military strength of Lahore when the Sikh Empire (1799-1849) was at the height of its power. Its intimidating dimensions are perfectly placed to introduce viewers to the expansive scope of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule, and the interplay between patronage, prosperity and peace that the howitzer represents. Manufactured in Lahore in 1838, the howitzer is based on contemporary Br