Bhutan Campaign, 1864 circa (oil on canvas)

Bhutan Campaign, 1864 circa. Oil on canvas by Colonel (later General Sir) John Miller Adye CB (1819-1900), 1864 circa. The border between Bhutan and British India was disputed by both sides and following Bhutia raiding and an unsuccessful diplomatic mission in 1863 (during which the envoy Sir Ashley Eden was insulted) the British annexed the region the following year. Initially there was little opposition, but in January 1865 the British were forced to evacuate their post at Dewangiri. An expedition, led by Brigadier-General Sir Henry Tombs, was then sent to recapture it in April. Peace was finally agreed in November although some minor skirmishing continued into the following year. The Bhutias ceded sections of the disputed border areas, but received an annual subsidy in return for their good behaviour. The artist, Colonel John Miller Adye CB, was Deputy Adjutant-General of Royal Artillery, Adjutant-General’s Department India.