Clapham School, London: a view inside the classroom, with lessons in progress, a vignette beneath. Engraving, 1812.

The vignette beneath the main picture shows two boys in sailor suits being instructed by personifications of education, one of whom has a Bible, in a setting of Oriental exoticism: palm trees and domed building with crescent motifs

The Madras or Monitorial system was invented by Andrew Bell when he was superintendent of the Madras Male Orphan School, 1789-1793. He published an account and vindication of his methods in a pamphlet: An experiment in education made at the Male Asylum of Madras, 1797 and 1805. This print may show his headquarters school in Borough Road, Lambeth

London (No.58 Cornhill) : Robt. Wilkinson, 20 May 1812.

1 print : engraving ; image 13.7 x 18.3 cm

An internal view of Clapham School. ; Conducted on the system of the Madras School invented by Andrew Bell D.D.&c. ; This school was erected in 1810 for the education of 200 boys. Lettering within the vignette reads: "Bell-Lancaster"

Wellcome Collection 39384i