Indian No.1 1856

Owen Jones’ ‘Indian No.1’ presents a series of ornamental designs, part of his broader 19th-century project to catalogue global decorative arts. Jones was an influential figure in the Victorian design reform movement. His work embodies the complex dynamics of cultural appropriation within the context of British colonialism. This lithograph, while seemingly a celebration of Indian motifs, participates in a colonial gaze that extracts and reinterprets cultural symbols. The patterns, removed from their original cultural contexts, reflect the power dynamics inherent in cross-cultural exchange during the age of empire. Jones believed in the power of ornamentation, stating that it could "ennoble the meanest object". The emotional impact of these patterns is complicated. While they may evoke a sense of beauty and exoticism, it's crucial to consider the historical context of their appropriation and the legacy of colonialism that continues to shape our understanding of cultural identity.