Lot 209
  • 209

An Illustration from the Mahabharata: Krishna and Pradyumna Battle the Demon Nikumbha who assumes the form of a bird

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description

  • An Illustration from the Mahabharata:Krishna and Pradyumna Battle the Demon Nikumbha who assumes the form of a bird
  • Opaque watercolor heightened with gold on paper

  • image 12 3/4 by 16 3/4 in. (32.3 by 42.4 cm.)
  • folio 14 1/2 by 18 1/2 in. (36.7 by 47 cm.) unframed

Provenance

Acquired from the Royal Library of Mandi in 1969

Condition

Very good overall condition. Colors brighter than catalogue illustration. Displayed in a temporary frame for exhibition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

The present and two following illustrations are from the Vishnu Parva of the Mahabharata which recounts the struggle between Krishna and the demon Nikumbha.

Nikumbha abducted a Yadava princess named Bhanumati causing Krishna, Arjuna and Pradyumna to mount a rescue effort. Here the demon assumes the form of a giant bird who holds the hapless damsel in his talons as he darts across the skies, all the while dodging the shower of arrows from the three warriors who are in hot pursuit.

For another illustration from the same series, see Sotheby's New York, September 19, 2006, lot 15.