The saints Bhagwan and Narayan holding prayer beads, Pahari, early 18th century

Ink and opaque watercolour on paper

In fair condition, laid down on paper, staining, rubbing and paper loss 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 drawing depicts the swami Narayan on the right and his guru Bhagwan on the left. The temple at Dhamtal has a series of frescoes that commemorate a famous incident when Emperor Jahangir tested the swami's powers by making him and an elephant drink six cups of poison. The elephant died, but swami Narayan, supported by his guru, showed no signs of sickness. The fame and following of these two saints was wide in the Hills. A well-known Chamba example showing them seated on a lotus throne is in the Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh (see Goswamy and Fischer 1992, no.54, pp.140-141), while a Nurpur illustration of circa 1710 in the National Museum, New Delhi shows Narayan and Bhagwan in their distinctive peaked caps (Archer 1960, pl. 71).