Composite drawing of a Bull

The fantastical image of a composite bull, its form created out of a menagerie of birds and beasts, including the owl, tiger, lion, fox, ibex, ram, fish, crocodile and mongoose, a snake forming its tail and little birds its hooves.

Peter Cochrane Collection

Fairly good overall condition. A fine scratch running halfway across the paper just above the bull is clearly visible in the catalogue illustration. Another light abrasion running down in front of the bull's face is also seen in the catalogue illustration. There are delicate and minute stains to the background around the bull but these are hardly visible as they blend into the overall sepia tones of the image. A light water stain has obscured part of the bull's front hoof, also seen in the catalogue image.This lot is in a temporary frame.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The drawing, executed in a European watercolor style, is noteworthy for its intricate detailing including the fine stippling and shading of all the individual animal components.

Compare with another image of a demon and composite bull of circa 1810-20 date, in the collection of the Chester Beatty Library, illustrated in Linda Y. Leach, Mughal and other Indian Paintings from the Chester Beatty Library, Vol II, London, 1995, cat. 7.116, p. 784.

Such subjects had always been an integral part of the repertoire of Mughal artists and they were particularly popular as curiosities amongst nineteenth Century European visitors to India. The present lot is a very fine example of its type.