James Prinsep (1799–1840) was an English scholar, orientalist, and antiquary renowned for his significant contributions to the understanding of ancient Indian scripts and culture. Born in the Prinsep family, which had strong ties to India, he pursued a career as an assay master at the Benares mint, where he honed his skills in chemistry and metallurgy. His artistic talent complemented his scientific endeavors, allowing him to document the architectural marvels of Benares and produce detailed maps and illustrations of the region.

During his time in India, Prinsep was instrumental in deciphering ancient scripts, including Kharosthi and Brahmi, which laid the groundwork for understanding Indian antiquities. He was the founding editor of the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, contributing extensively to the fields of numismatics and meteorology. His efforts to reform weights and measures in India, along with his detailed studies of coins and inscriptions, helped establish a more comprehensive historical narrative of Indian dynasties and their connections to the broader ancient world.

Prinsep's legacy is marked by his profound impact on the study of Indian history and culture. His meticulous documentation of ancient monuments and his pioneering work in epigraphy inspired future generations of scholars. Memorials, such as Prinsep Ghat in Kolkata, honor his contributions, while his collections of ancient coins and artifacts are preserved in institutions like the British Museum. Through his scholarly achievements and artistic talents, Prinsep remains a significant figure in the history of Indian studies.