Drawn on the Western Front: Paul Sarrut and the Indian Army

Discover original drawings, rare objects and interactive displays revealing the shared wartime experiences of the diverse Allied armies fighting in France.

During the First World War (1914–18), the French artist Paul Sarrut served as a liaison officer and interpreter with British, French and Indian units on the Western Front. He lived among the men he drew, capturing daily life at close quarters in camps, billets and medical stations.

Indian soldiers left the deepest impression on Sarrut's work. Their distinctive uniforms, languages and traditions attracted his particular attention. They formed the subject of some of his most detailed studies.

A unique visual record

Bringing together 58 original drawings, many displayed publicly for the first time in over 100 years, this is the first UK exhibition ever dedicated to Paul Sarrut.

Alongside his vivid sketches are more than 100 objects, including uniforms, photographs, lithographs, medals and archival material. Highlights include the Victoria Cross awarded to Sepoy Khudadad Khan, the first soldier from the Indian subcontinent to receive the award.

The exhibition also features interactive displays, including extracts from the diary of Jemadar Kirpal Singh of the 34th Sikh Pioneers, read in Punjabi by his grandson, Dr Gurpreet Singh.

Generously supported by Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC