A LION AND STARVING ELEPHANT, MUGHAL, MID-17TH CENTYURY

Ink and gold on paper

In fairly good condition, laid down on paper, repaired tears, minor staining throughout, rubbing on the lion, as viewed.
"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."

This carefully rendered depiction of an emaciated elephant threatened by a fierce lion is actually two drawings mounted together. Close inspection shows that the lion is drawn on a separate piece of paper which has been adhered to the main piece, and once that is realised, two compositional oddities make more sense. Firstly, the lion is drawn as if actually pouncing on prey, with the front paws clamped together in a gripping action, rather than about to jump at the elephant, and thus his jaws are open not to roar but to bite whatever his prey is; secondly, the elephant seems very unconcerned at the rather immediate threat of the ferocious lion.