James Burgess (archaeologist)

James Burgess (14 August 1832 – 4 October 1916) was a Scottish archaeologist and architectural historian who worked extensively in India. He is best known for his surveys and documentation of Indian architectural heritage, particularly Buddhist cave temples and other ancient monuments.

Burgess was born in Kirkmahoe, Dumfriesshire, Scotland. He trained as a teacher before developing an interest in archaeology and architecture. In 1861, he went to India and became headmaster of the Poonamallee High School near Madras. In 1868, he was appointed Archaeological Surveyor and Reporter to the Government of Bombay, and later Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1886 to 1889.

During his time in India, Burgess travelled extensively, documenting and photographing numerous archaeological sites. His work included detailed surveys of the cave temples at Ajanta, Ellora, Karle, and other locations. He published numerous books and articles on Indian architecture and archaeology, including important works on the Buddhist cave temples of Western India, and the architecture of Gujarat and Kathiawar. These publications remain valuable resources for scholars studying Indian art and architectural history.

Burgess resigned from the ASI in 1889 and returned to Scotland. He continued to publish and contribute to scholarly discussions on Indian art and architecture until his death in 1916. His meticulous documentation and scholarly contributions significantly advanced the understanding and appreciation of India's rich architectural heritage.