'Crossing the Touse'

James B. Fraser depicts crossing the River Touse (now the Tons) using a rope and harness. It shows the dangers of traversing wild landscapes, the river crashing against the rocks. The steep cliffs on the other side demonstrate that the difficulties of the journey will continue even after the treacherous crossing. In the foreground Fraser has used detail to depict the undergrowth. While the landscape is clearly impressive Fraser emphasises the success of mankind in overcoming challenges, a philosophy that was very present at the time. We can see a large group of people seated waiting to cross the river. Many hold weapons, prepared for any eventuality. One man stands in a position that replicates figures in European war paintings adding further dramatics to the image. The men are dressed in clothes that may be an accurate depiction of traditional Himalayan clothing, or may be stylised by Fraser or the printer. Fraser may have adapted their clothing to further exoticise his work, or the platemaker / printer may have made changes to fit their own ideas of India. You can see this particularly in the two large figures in the centre foreground, who seem out of place in their dress and composition.