Watercolor Exhibition: Mauritius Through the Brush of Streatfield

On the occasion of International Museum Day 2026, celebrated on May 18, the Mauritius Museums Council, under the auspices of the Ministry of Arts and Culture, is hosting an exhibition titled "Watercolours of Mauritius 1820–1830 by William Sandeforth Streatfield". The exhibition is being held at the Natural History Museum in Port Louis and is open to the public until June 13, 2026.

This collection features 55 rare watercolours created between 1820 and 1830, providing a valuable insight into Mauritius in the early 19th century. The artworks depict various regions of the island, including Port Louis, Tamarin, Rivière-Noire, Souillac, Bel-Ombre, Réduit, and Mahébourg.

Through his artistic perspective, William Sandeforth Streatfield immortalized the landscapes, lush vegetation, coastlines, bridges, ports, and colonial homes of the time. Some watercolours also illustrate historical sites associated with figures such as Major Webster, Captain Dick, and Charles Telfair.

Born in London in 1781, William Sandeforth Streatfield served in the British army when he was assigned to Mauritius in the early 19th century in the Storekeeper General's department. During his time on the island, he created a series of around 55 miniature watercolours that today represent one of the most significant collections of Mauritian landscapes from that era.

According to the Mauritius Museums Council, this exhibition aligns with the theme of International Museum Day 2026, "Museums Uniting a Divided World". This theme emphasizes the role of museums in promoting dialogue, inclusion, and mutual understanding among communities.

Through this exhibition, visitors are invited to rediscover Mauritius as it appeared nearly two centuries ago, through the eyes of an artist whose works continue to showcase the historical, cultural, and natural richness of the country.