This chromo-lithograph depicts the Refreshment Rooms at Eden Gardens, located in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, as part of the “Travels of India” series. The illustration captures a charming, open-sided structure designed with a thatched roof and a latticework facade, nestled within lush greenery. The building is modest but elegant, with a few simple furnishings such as tables and chairs visible in the open space, suggesting a place of rest and relaxation for visitors.

Eden Gardens, historically known for its beautiful landscapes and as a popular public park, was an important social and cultural hub in Calcutta during the 19th century. This particular structure, the Refreshment Rooms, was likely a place where colonial visitors could stop for tea or light refreshments while enjoying the surroundings. The open design and natural elements reflected a fusion of British colonial and local architectural styles, adapted to the tropical climate of India.

The lithograph not only serves as an artistic record of the period but also offers a glimpse into the leisurely activities of British and Indian elites during colonial times. The serene environment of Eden Gardens, with its meticulously maintained lawns and trees in the background, provides a contrast to the bustling life of Calcutta, illustrating the importance of spaces for relaxation and recreation in the colonial city.

Product Details