3-074-521 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Anjer, on the Coast of Java, destroyed by the eruption, 1883. 'The homeward-bound voyager about to pass through the Straits of Sunda, the scene of the late terrific volcanic disturbance, at the western extremity of the island of Java, is sometimes fortunate enough to experience a strange yet beautiful optical delusion, probably akin to the mirage of the desert. It presents a magnificent display of natural architecture, commencing at one particular point - always at the same place - off the coast of Sumatra. Huge granite pillars tower to the sky at nearly regular intervals, beginning at the outlet of one of the valleys, and extending five miles out to sea...our Sketch depicts part of the channel between the two great islands, showing the position of Batavia; the little town of Anjer and its lighthouse, now all in ruins; [and] some of the features of the coast-line...This sketch was drawn a few years ago by Mr. William Cochran, of the proposed ''New Zealand Chasericultural Company,'' on his way home from China'. From "Illustrated London News", 1883.