Small square paper pasted to larger page with inscription that reads, "Watercolour Paintings of the Birds of India by Lady Elizabeth Gwillim Madras, 1801–1808 – ? (Lady G. died 1807) (Life-size – drawings) In a portfolio with a few of her paintings of flowers. See, also, larger portfolio, for larger paintings of birds." Includes some other inscriptions on the page.
Small paper mounted on centre of page with black ink cursive writing that reads, "Drawings by Lady Gwillim wife of Chief Justice of Madras in 1801/2 [?] - 5." Blue ink stamp below writing reads, "Dr. Casey Wood, Author's Club, 2. Whitehall Court, London, England."
The collection contains 164 botanical and zoological paintings created chiefly by Elizabeth Gwillim as well as possibly by her sister Mary Symonds while living in Chennai, India (then Madras). The collection includes 121 watercolours of birds with inscriptions, 31 watercolours of fish, and twelve of flowers, drawn from life rather than specimens. The paintings reflect the sisters' time in Madras during which, as artists and letter writers, they created a substantial visual record of the landscape and inhabitants of Madras and environs. The paintings also reflect Gwillim's scientific pursuits, including her study of botany.
Very lightly sketched and painted flower, some leaves painted light grey or green, others just outlined in pencil. Stem surrounded with curling, loose leaves. Inscription at the bottom centre of the page reads, "Glaucium luteum." Another at the lower left of the drawing reads, "Chelidonium Glaucium Yellow-horned poppy."
Painting showing a side view of brown fish with red fins; scales individually rendered; blue wash underneath. Pencilled inscription on mat reads, "Apogon cupreus."
Two smaller paintings mounted on one sheet. The upper painting shows two small yellow flowers, with no stems or leaves, lightly outlined. The lower painting shows a stem with bunch of small yellow flowers drooping down with very light green leaves. Inscription beneath the lower painting reads, "Cowslip primula veris."
Painting showing a side view of Physalia with pink-and-blue pneumatophore and violet tentacles. Pencilled inscription below drawing reads, "Physalia - (Portuguese man-of-war)."