An illustrated page from a Ragamala series, Bilaval Ragini of Raga Hindol, Popular Mughal, early 17th century

gouache heightened with gold on paper, narrow gold and blue ruled borders, Devanagari inscriptions above, Nasta'liq and Devanagari inscriptions to reverse

Painted area in generally good condition, colours fairly bright. Losses in inscription at top of leaf and near the bottom. Outer border with some paint loss, stains near bottom and edges,. Writing in Hindi and some stains on back. 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."

The text above the miniature translates as: "Having granted her lover the favour of a rendezvous, arranging jewellery on her slender body, continually remembering her chosen deity – the god of love – she is Vilavali, whose face is like the blue lotus". This illustration is from a series closely related in style to a group of early Ragamalas executed in the first two decades of the seventeenth century. The earliest is dated 1605 (several leaves including the colophon are in the Museum für Indische Kunst, Berlin), while the Laud Ragamala in the Bodleian Library, Oxford, and the Manley Ragamala in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, are the other principle examples.