Book excerpt: While the importance and aesthetic delight of Tod`s collections are beyond doubt, the accuracy and political objectives of his history have always been controversial matters. This book explores not only his collections but his work as an author, and the reception of his ideas by other scholars and writers. The chapters are all written by experts on Tod or on Rajasthani art and history; and each of them explores one aspect of his collections, or their broader context in Tod`s life and times.