Indian Art in the Royal Collection

Discover the Royal Collection's rich variety of Indian works through our short curatorial film. Spanning over 600 years, these pieces showcase exceptional artistry and craftsmanship from almost every region of India. The collection reflects the shared history of Britain and India, encompassing periods of cultural exchange and the complex dynamics of empire and commonwealth.

Our film highlights exquisite objects like jewelled daggers, illuminated manuscripts, scientific instruments, and enamelled boxes, all demonstrating the region's finest materials and techniques. You'll see works that arrived at the British Court as diplomatic gifts and others collected by the Royal Family during their visits to India. Today, significant parts of this South Asian collection are on display at royal residences such as Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Sandringham House.

Watch this short film for a closer look at key pieces, including a gem-set necklace once belonging to Queen Victoria and a unique katar (dagger) that skilfully combines both British and Indian motifs.