Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Tipu, the Sultan of Mysore (1750-1799), called himself “The Tiger of Mysore.” He
was well educated in several languages and collected a library of 2,000 books. An en-
lightened ruler, he built roads and dams and promoted new technology. Tipu could see
that India was being swallowed up by the all-powerful British East India Company. He
allied himself with France and fought several successful wars against the British, but he
was eventually defeated and forced to give up half his kingdom to them. Tipu was later
killed by the Brits in battle (1799), his palace ransacked, and his possessions—including
this toy—were taken, like much of India, by the British East India Company.
• Backtrack out of Room 41 and turn right, then right again into Room 40. Here you'll find
the...
Fashion Galleries
Centuries of English fashion are corseted into 40 display cases. The cases around the peri-
meter show the evolution of a particular article of clothing. You'll see ladies' underwear
through the ages, formal wear, men's suits, and so on. Temporary exhibits here usually en-
liven the displays. For more on old English fashion, visit the British Galleries (described
below).
• Directly across the hall from Room 40 is the cavernous Room 48a, filled with...
