Fergusson, JAMES, D.C.L., F.R.S.

Fergusson, JAMES, D.C.L., F.R.S., 'the historian of architecture,' was born at Ayr in 1808, and after spending some years as an indigo-planter in Bengal, explored nearly every corner of India, sketching and studying the rock-temples, which were illustrated in his earliest works. His invaluable History of Architecture (4 vols. 1865–76; 3d ed. 1894), appeared first as a Handbook in 1855. He published works on fortification and on the defences of Portsmouth, and was a member of the Royal Commission on the defences of the United Kingdom. His other works include The Palaces of Nineveh and Persepolis Restored (1851), Trce and Serpent Worship (1869), and a History of Rude Stone Monuments (1872). He died 9th January 1886.