Scottish architects, imperial identities and India’s built environment in the early twentieth century: the careers of John Begg and George Wittet

Abstract

Two Scottish architects, John Begg and George Wittet, created some of the most famous of Mumbai’s landmarks and notable buildings elsewhere in India in the early twentieth century. They were also instrumental in the development of architectural education in India through their involvement with the Sir Jamshetji Jeejeebhoy School of Art. Both men made major contributions to the colonial built environment as well as to the future of the architectural profession in India. In this regard, they are highly significant but under-studied Scottish participants in the history of the British Empire. Scottish architects and their role in the shaping of imperial cities around the world have remained largely absent from much of the rich history of Scotland and empire. This article uses the examples of Begg and Wittet to analyse the career trajectories of these two Scottish architects. Through close analysis of Begg’s numerous writings, it becomes clear that in the professional sphere, Begg sought to champion the notable minority of trained British architects serving in India, and to bring their work to the attention of the metropole. In this regard, their professional identity was that of the British imperial architect, while they simultaneously maintained Scottish social and religious connections. Like many Scots before them, they forged fluid Scottish, British, and imperial identities while serving in India.

Keywords

• identity
• British Empire