The Lake of Mooty Tallaow near Seringapatam

‘This lake [located 10 miles north-west of Srirangapatna] has been artificially formed, by closing up an opening, in a semi-circular ridge of hills. The embankment which shuts in the waters, is above sixty feet high, and is one of the many stupendous works which evince the degree of power and civilization formerly attained by the Hindoos. On the side towards the lake, it is faced with regular stone steps, for the convenience of bathing, and performing religious ablution; these are continued to the bottom of the water, which is very deep and remarkably clear.’ This is the description of the place recorded by the artist in the second edition of his published paintings and drawings, titled Twelve Views of Places in the Kingdom of Mysore.