Indian Ornament no. 6. Specimens of painted lacquer work at the collection at the India-House 

Owen Jones produced this chromolithograph entitled 'Indian Ornament no. 6. Specimens of painted lacquer work at the collection at the India-House'. It's a printed copy of painted lacquer work. In this image, Jones reproduces the designs found in Indian art, which he encountered at the India House. These designs weren't just aesthetic choices; they reflected complex cultural values and traditions deeply embedded in Indian society. By isolating and presenting these ornaments, Jones invites us to consider the social and cultural significance of design. Made in the 19th century, this print reflects the Victorian era's fascination with exotic cultures and its project of cataloging the world's artistic achievements. Yet, it also raises questions about cultural appropriation and the power dynamics inherent in the colonial gaze. Jones was a pivotal figure in the British design reform movement, and his publications had a global reach and impact. To understand this image better, we can delve into the archives of institutions like the India Office and consult design manuals of the period. In doing so, we are better placed to appreciate the intricate relationship between art, society, and power.