Maharaja Ram Singh in Procession Entering a Fort

Fairly good overall condition. The paper has been laid down on cloth. The vertical line running down the center of the painting marks the join between the two parts of the image. There is a horizontal crease line also running through the center of the painting, not visible in the catalog illustration. Loss to lower right corner of folio border and repairs to two areas on the lower right and lower middle right margins, all seen in catalog illustration. Some rubbing to pigment on the treetops bordering the mote on the lower left quadrant. Some rubbing to pigment on the foliage in the lower right quadrant and slight staining throughout, consistent with age. This lot is exhibited 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Accompanied by his queen and harem, who are protected within a red palanquin, and his flamboyant retinue of horses, elephants, and followers, Maharaja Ram Singh returns to the fort. This vivid scene is replete with a profusion of flora and fauna, including monkeys, peacocks, birds and fish, and crocodiles in the moat. The inscription reads “Raoraja Maharaja Ram Singh Ji is approaching the fort; with him Divan is seated.” We gratefully acknowledge the kind assistance of Dr. Naval Krishna with the transcription of this text.

For a related illustration, see Anna Jackson and Amin Jaffer, Maharaja: The Spendour of India’s Royal Courts, London, 2009, pp. 78-9, cat. no. 58. The current painting has a more complete perspective. Compare with Sotheby’s London, May 24, 2007, lot 10.