Art and Archaeology of Ancient India: Earliest Times to the Sixth Century

The Ashmolean Museum is fortunate in having the most comprehensive British collection of the art of the Indian subcontinent outside London. Especially strong in sculpture, this rich representation of Indian art from prehistory to the twentieth century has come about through the generosity of our benefactors over more than three centuries. The Museum's first major Indian sculpture acquisition, a stone Pala-style Vishnu image of the eleventh century, was given in 1686 by Sir William Hedges, a governor of the East India Company in Bengal. From the late nineteenth century, a substantial core of the present collection was assembled at the University's former Indian Institute Museum (1897-1962), precursor of the Department of Eastern Art, which opened within the Ashmolean in 1963. Since that date many more Indian objects of all periods have been acquired by gift, bequest or purchase.

A graduate of Melbourne University, motoring journalist David Dowsey initially came from a musical background. He has had a genuine and passionate interest in Aston Martins for many years after first coming into contact with the marque through the famous Corgi toys. His profession allows him to sample the latest and greatest motoring products, and as a long-time owner of an Aston Martin he is well-placed to present this comprehensive study of a vital period in the brand's history. A member of the Guild of Motoring Artists and Australian Autuomotive Artists, English-born Mike Harbar is passionate about cars and drawing them. He has drawn the lot, from AMR-1 to Zagato. Since moving to Australia in 2000 Mike has continued his work as a freelance car artist with thousands of customers worldwide, producing artwork for magazines, car specialists, club events, race teams, corporations and private enthusiasts. More of Mike Harbar's artwork can be viewed at www.car-artist.com.