The artwork Taj Mahal, Agra created by Charles William Bartlett in 1916 is a notable piece in his oeuvre, particularly for its connection to his travels and his collaboration with Japanese woodblock print publishers.

Artist Background

Charles William Bartlett was a British artist born on June 1, 1860, in Bridgeport, Dorsetshire, England. He initially studied metallurgy but later pursued art, studying painting and etching at the Royal Academy in London and at the Académie Julian in Paris.

Travel and Inspiration

In 1913, Bartlett and his wife embarked on a global expedition that took them through India, Ceylon, Indonesia, China, and Japan. During this journey, he created watercolors and sketches of various iconic landmarks, including the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.

Collaboration with Watanabe Shozaburo

Upon arriving in Japan in 1915, Bartlett met Watanabe Shozaburo, a prominent publisher of woodblock prints who was instrumental in the Shin Hanga movement. This collaboration led to the publication of 21 woodblock prints designed by Bartlett in 1916, including several depicting Indian and Japanese landscapes.

Artwork Details

- Medium: The Taj Mahal, Agra is a color woodcut, a medium that Bartlett mastered during his collaboration with Watanabe's print shop.

- Date: Created in 1916, this work reflects Bartlett's experiences and observations during his travels.

- Description: The print shows the Taj Mahal, often depicted with a romantic and vivid style characteristic of Bartlett's work. One version of the print features a full moon over the Yamuna River with the Taj Mahal in the background.

Legacy

After his time in Japan, Bartlett settled in Hawaii, where he continued to produce art and became a respected figure in the local art community. He passed away on April 16, 1940, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant and expressive woodblock prints. The Taj Mahal, Agra woodcut is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, bequeathed by James Parmelee in 1940, and is available for download and sharing under the museum's Open Access Initiative.