Lot 17
  • 17

Two Portraits: Kunwar Sujan Singh of Bijna on Horseback with Attendants and Kunwar Sujan Singh Presents Miniature Paintings to Kunwar Dhan Singh on an Open Terrace, India, Central India, Orcha at Bijna, each dated 1808

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

Opaque watercolour heightened with gold on paper, both inscribed and dated Samvat 1865 (1808 AD) on the reverse.



The following two paintings from the central Indian principality of Orcha, are rare documents of court life and patronage during the early 19th century. The inscribed and dated works give us important historical and stylistic information about painting in the region.  Orcha and Datia, are known for their rich cultural heritage and close connections with the Mughal court right from the time of Bir Singh Deo, a close ally of Jahangir. The inscriptions on the reverse of  both paintings state they were painted in Bijna.  Because of its proximity to Orcha and close stylistic connection, it is most likely that the artists were from there.



The second painting depicts the two princes finely dressed in summer attire of transparent muslin and mashru. To the right is Kumwar Sujan Singh and on the left Kunwar Dhan Singh.  The figure handing the painting to Kunwar Dhan Singh is probably a portrait of the artist. On close inspection it appears the Equestrian Portrait of Kumwar Sujan Singh is in fact the very work being handed over.  



 

Condition

Both in good overall condition. Kunwar Sujan Singh presents miniatures: border cropped along lower edge, visible in catalogue, minor loss to shoulder of seated figure lower left and neck of standing figure to the left of Kunwar Sujan Singh, staining to lower left edge, colours richer in reality, unframed; Kunwar Sujan Singh on horseback: border cropped upper and lower edge, minor areas of rubbing and loss including to legs of horse and sky, two minor worm holes righthand side, colours richer in reality, unframed
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