Fort St George, Madras 1731

George Lambert’s painting depicts Fort St George in Madras, now Chennai, India. It was made in the mid-18th century when the British East India Company was solidifying its power in the region. The painting presents a serene view of the fort, with British ships in the foreground, their flags prominently displayed. Lambert's painting offers us a glimpse into the visual culture of British colonialism. The fort itself was not only a military installation, but also a center of trade and administration. So, the painting reinforces the image of British power and order in a distant land, subtly promoting the legitimacy of the Company's presence. The artwork reflects the political ambitions of the time. Historical documents and company records can help us understand the dynamics between the British and the local population, to reveal the often-violent reality behind this composed image. Art, in this sense, becomes a site where power dynamics are negotiated and visualized.