The Surrender of the Two Sons of Tipu Sahib, Sultan of Mysore, to Sir David Baird
Henry Singleton's masterpiece, The Surrender of the Two Sons of Tipu Sahib, Sultan of Mysore, to Sir David Baird. beautifully encapsulates a crucial moment in the Anglo-Mysore Wars. Painted circa 1800, this 17 x 21 inch oil on canvas artwork portrays the emotional dynamics of surrender, vividly reflecting the tension between colonial powers and the indomitable spirit of Indian royalty. Singleton employs rich colors and meticulous detail to convey the gravity of the scene, making it a compelling study of power, conflict, and history.
Circa 1800
About the Artwork
This captivating painting illustrates a moment from the complex tapestry of the Anglo-Mysore Wars, a series of conflicts that reshaped India’s political landscape in the late 18th century. Tipu Sahib, the Sultan of Mysore, fiercely resisted British colonial expansion, and after his eventual defeat, his two sons were captured. Artist Henry Singleton cleverly dramatizes their surrender to Sir David Baird, evoking themes of loss, dignity, and the harsh reality of colonial encounters. This artwork stands not only as a representation of this historical episode but also as a vehicle for discussing broader colonial relations and their enduring impact on cultural identities.
